Refrigerator

Abstract

This refrigerator comprises: a main body; a thermoelectric element provided on an upper wall of the main body and having a heat generation unit and a heat absorption unit; a heat dissipation sink provided to be in contact with the heat generation unit; a heat dissipation fan for generating air flow; a heat dissipation duct having an external air suction port and an external air discharge port and coupled to the upper wall of the main body to guide air flowing by the heat dissipation fan to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink; a top cover including a filter accommodation space provided in a position corresponding to the external air suction port; and a dust filter which can be detachably mounted in the filter accommodation space. The dust filter includes a filter member for filtering dust in the air and a filter frame for supporting the filter member. The filter frame includes a rear rib protruding upward from the filter frame so as to prevent dust filtered by the filter member from being introduced into the heat dissipation duct when the dust filter is separated from the filter accommodation space.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator having an improved structure.

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

[0003] A thermoelectric cooling device that generates heat and cooling through the Peltier effect can be used as a cooling device in a refrigerator. The thermoelectric cooling device may include a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element has a heat generating portion formed on one side and a heat absorbing portion formed on the opposite side. When current is applied to the thermoelectric element, heat generation occurs in the heat generating portion and heat absorption occurs in the heat absorbing portion.

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

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having a dust filter arranged to filter air drawn into a heat dissipation duct.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator that can prevent dust filtered by a dust filter from flowing into a heat dissipation duct when the dust filter is separated.

[0007] 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.

[0008] A refrigerator according to the invention comprises a main body, a thermoelectric element provided on an upper wall of the main body and having a heat generating portion and a heat absorbing portion, a heat dissipation sink provided to be in contact with the heat generating portion, a heat dissipation fan for generating air flow, a heat dissipation duct coupled to the upper wall of the main body for guiding air flowing by the heat dissipation fan to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink, a top cover including a filter receiving space provided at a position corresponding to the outside air intake, and a dust filter detachably mountable in the filter receiving space. The dust filter includes a filter member for filtering dust in the air and a filter frame for supporting the filter member. The filter frame includes a rear rib protruding upward from the filter frame to prevent dust filtered by the filter member from flowing into the heat dissipation duct when the dust filter is detached from the filter receiving space.

[0009] A refrigerator according to the invention comprises a main body, a thermoelectric element provided on an upper wall of the main body and having a heat generating portion and a heat absorbing portion, a heat dissipation sink provided to be in contact with the heat generating portion, a heat dissipation fan for generating air flow, a heat dissipation duct coupled to the upper wall of the main body for guiding air flowing by the heat dissipation fan to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink, a top cover including a filter receiving space provided at a position corresponding to the outside air intake and an air inlet provided at one side of the filter receiving space, and a dust filter detachably mounted in the filter receiving space of the top cover. The dust filter includes a filter member for filtering dust in the air and a filter frame for supporting the filter member. The filter frame includes a rear rib protruding from a rear end of the filter frame toward the air inlet when the dust filter is mounted in the filter receiving space.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the doors of a refrigerator in an open state according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a drawing of the upper part of a storage compartment of a refrigerator according to one embodiment, viewed from below.

[0013] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II shown in Figure 2.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a top cover, a dust filter, and a heat dissipation duct separated from the main body according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a heat dissipation duct cover, a heat dissipation duct body, and a thermoelectric module separated according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating the bottom surface of a top cover according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating the flow of air through a heat dissipation fan, a heat dissipation duct, and a top cover according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a dust filter according to one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the bottom surface of the dust filter illustrated in Fig. 10.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a dust filter is mounted on a top cover according to one embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing the dust filter separated from the top cover shown in Fig. 12.

[0023] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II shown in Figure 12.

[0024] Figure 15 is an enlarged view of area A shown in Figure 14.

[0025] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ⅲ-Ⅲ shown in Figure 12.

[0026] Figure 17 is an enlarged view of area B shown in Figure 16.

[0027] Fig. 18 is a perspective view illustrating a dust filter according to one embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 19 is a perspective view illustrating a dust filter according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 20 is an enlarged view showing the contact between the rear rib of the filter frame and the barrier wall of the top cover when the dust filter illustrated in FIG. 19 is mounted on the top cover.

[0030] 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.

[0031] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0035] 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).

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0041] The "body" may include an inner case, an outer case disposed on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0042] The "inner case" may include at least one of a case, a plate, a panel, or a liner forming a storage compartment. The inner case may be formed as a single body, or may be formed by assembling a plurality of plates. The "outer case" may form the outer appearance of the main body, and may be joined to the outer side of the inner case so that insulation is placed between the inner case and the outer case.

[0043] "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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] A refrigerator may include one or more storage compartments. When a refrigerator has 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.

[0047] The storage room may be designed to maintain an appropriate temperature range depending on its intended use, and may include a "refrigerator," a "freezer," or a "variable temperature room," which are distinguished by their intended use and / or temperature range. A refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for refrigerating items, and a freezer may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for freezing items. "Refrigeration" may mean cooling items to a temperature that does not freeze them, and for example, a refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature ranging from 0 degrees Celsius to +7 degrees Celsius. "Freezing" may mean cooling items to freeze them or keep them frozen, and for example, a freezer may be maintained at a temperature ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. A variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator or a freezer, at the user's option or not.

[0048] In addition to names such as "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room," a storage room may also be called by various other names such as "vegetable room," "fresh room," "cooling room," and "ice room." The terms "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room" used hereinafter should be understood to encompass storage rooms having corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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 through heat generation and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0058] 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.

[0059] The "machine room" may be designed to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated by components placed within the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to be in communication with the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed within the machine room.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0071] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0072] Meanwhile, the terms “front / rear direction,” “left / right direction,” “upper side,” “lower side,” etc. used in the description below are defined based on the drawing, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0073] For example, the X direction can be defined as the forward-backward direction. For example, the Y direction can be defined as the sideways direction. For example, the Z direction can be defined as the up-down direction. For example, the +X direction can be defined as the forward direction and the -X direction as the back direction. For example, the +Y direction can be defined as the right direction and the -Y direction as the left direction. For example, the +Z direction can be defined as the upward direction and the -Z direction as the downward direction.

[0074] Hereinafter, an embodiment according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0075] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the doors of the refrigerator according to one embodiment in an open state. FIG. 3 is a view of the upper portion of a storage compartment of the refrigerator according to one embodiment as viewed from below. FIG. 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II shown in FIG. 2.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a refrigerator (1) may include a main body (100), a plurality of storage compartments (11, 12, 13) provided inside the main body (100), and a plurality of doors (21, 22, 23, 24) provided to open and close the plurality of storage compartments (11, 12, 13).

[0077] The main body (100) may include an inner case (170), an outer case (180) coupled to the outer side of the inner case (170), and an insulating material (190) provided between the inner case (170) and the outer case (180). The inner case (170) may form each of a plurality of storage chambers (11, 12, 13), and the outer case (180) may form the outer appearance of the main body (100).

[0078] The main body (100) may include an upper wall (110), a lower wall (120), a left wall (130), a right wall (140), and a rear wall (150). The upper wall (110), the lower wall (120), the left wall (130), the right wall (140), and the rear wall (150) may form an upper surface (+Z direction), a lower surface (-Z direction), a left surface (-Y direction), a right surface (+Y direction), and a rear wall (-X direction) of the main body (100), respectively.

[0079] Each of the upper wall (110), the lower wall (120), the left wall (130), the right wall (140), and the rear wall (150) may be formed of an inner surface (170), an outer surface (180), and an insulating material (190). For example, the upper surface of the upper wall (110) is formed by the outer surface (180), the lower surface of the upper wall (110) is formed by the inner surface (170), and an insulating material (190) may be provided on the inside of the upper wall (110) (see FIG. 14).

[0080] Each of the plurality of storage rooms (11, 12, 13) can accommodate items. Each of the plurality of storage rooms (11, 12, 13) can be formed with an open front side so that items can be put in or taken out.

[0081] The plurality of storage rooms (11, 12, 13) may include a first storage room (11), a second storage room (12), and a third storage room (13). The first storage room (11) may be provided at the upper portion of the main body (100), and the second storage room (12) and the third storage room (13) may be provided at the lower portion of the main body (100). The first storage room (11) may be a refrigerator, the second storage room (12) may be a freezer, and the third storage room (13) may be a variable temperature room. The main body (100) may include a horizontal partition (160) dividing the first storage room (11) from the second storage room (12) and the third storage room (13), and a vertical partition (161) dividing the second storage room (12) from the third storage room (13).

[0082] Each of the plurality of doors (21, 22, 23, 24) may be arranged to open and close each of the plurality of storage rooms (11, 12, 13).

[0083] The plurality of doors (21, 22, 23, 24) may include a first door (21), a second door (22), a third door (23), and a fourth door (24). The first door (21) and the second door (22) can open and close the first storage compartment (11), the third door (23) can open and close the second storage compartment (12), and the fourth door (24) can open and close the third storage compartment (13).

[0084] Each of the plurality of doors (21, 22, 23, 24) can be rotatably coupled to the main body (100). Specifically, each of the plurality of doors (21, 22, 23, 24) can be rotatably coupled to the main body (100) by a hinge.

[0085] For example, the first door (21) and the second door (22) may be rotatably connected to the main body (100) by a hinge (30) provided on the upper portion of the main body (100) and a hinge (not shown) provided in the middle of the main body (100), respectively. The hinge (30) may be covered by a top cover (300) provided to cover the front portion of the upper surface of the main body (100).

[0086] The refrigerator (1) may include a rotating bar (41). The rotating bar (41) may be provided to cover a gap formed between the first door (21) and the second door (22) when the first door (21) and the second door (22) are closed. The rotating bar (41) may have a rod shape that is formed long in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The rotating bar (41) may also be referred to as a pillar, a mullion, or the like.

[0087] The rotating bar (41) may be provided rotatably on either the first door (21) or the second door (22). In the drawing, the rotating bar (41) is shown as being provided rotatably on the first door (21), but the rotating bar (41) may also be provided rotatably on the second door (22).

[0088] The rotating bar (41) may include a guide protrusion (41a) provided at the upper end of the rotating bar (41). A rotating guide (42) that guides the rotation of the guide protrusion (41a) may be provided at the upper end of the main body (100). When the first door (21) and the second door (22) are closed, the rotating guide (42) guides the rotation of the guide protrusion (41a), thereby allowing the rotating bar (41) to rotate. This allows the gap formed between the first door (21) and the second door (22) to be covered.

[0089] Each of the plurality of doors (21, 22, 23, 24) may include a gasket (51). The gasket (51) may be brought into close contact with the front surface of the main body (100) when each of the plurality of doors (21, 22, 23, 24) is closed.

[0090] Each of the plurality of doors (21, 22, 23, 24) may include a dyke (52) protruding rearward. The dyke (52) may be equipped with a door shelf (53) capable of storing items. A rotating bar (41) may be rotatably installed on the dyke (52).

[0091] Although the number and arrangement of storage compartments and the number and arrangement of doors have been described above, there is no limitation on the number and arrangement of storage compartments and the number and arrangement of doors of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] The refrigerator (1) may include a thermoelectric cooling device (400) arranged to cool the first storage compartment (11).

[0093] A thermoelectric cooling device (400) may be provided on the upper side of the first storage room (11) to cool the first storage room (11). That is, the thermoelectric cooling device (400) may be provided on the upper wall (110) of the main body (100).

[0094] A thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a thermoelectric element (510). The thermoelectric element (510) may be a semiconductor element that converts thermal energy into electrical energy using the thermoelectric effect, and may also be referred to as a thermoelectric semiconductor element, a Peltier element, or the like. The thermoelectric element (510) may have a thin hexahedral shape.

[0095] A thermoelectric element (510) may include a heat generating portion (511) and a heat absorbing portion (512). When current is applied to the thermoelectric element (510), a heat generating action may occur in the heat generating portion (511) and a heat absorbing action may occur in the heat absorbing portion (512). A heat generating portion (511) may be provided on one side of the thermoelectric element (510) and a heat absorbing portion (512) may be provided on the opposite side.

[0096] A thermoelectric element (510) may be provided on the upper wall (110). The thermoelectric element (510) may be provided such that the heating portion (511) faces above the thermoelectric element (510) and the heat absorption portion (512) faces below the thermoelectric element (510). In other words, the heating portion (511) may be provided on the upper surface of the thermoelectric element (510), and the heat absorption portion (512) may be provided on the lower surface of the thermoelectric element (510). The heating portion (511) may face the outside of the main body (100), and the heat absorption portion (512) may face the inside of the first storage chamber (11). Accordingly, air that has been warmed through heat exchange with the heating portion (511) may be discharged to the outside of the main body (100), and air that has been cooled through heat exchange with the heat absorption portion (512) may be supplied to the first storage chamber (11).

[0097] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a heat sink (520) that contacts the heat generating unit (511) so that heat exchange between the heat generating unit (511) and the air outside the main body (100) is efficiently performed. The heat sink (520) may be provided on the upper side of the thermoelectric element (510) so as to contact the heat generating unit (511).

[0098] A heat sink (520) may be provided on the outside of the main body (100). The heat sink (520) may contact the heat generating part (511) to absorb heat from the heat generating part (511) and release heat to the outside of the main body (100). The heat sink (520) may also be referred to as a hot sink, a heat dissipation heat sink, a hot heat sink, etc.

[0099] The heat sink (520) may be formed of a metal material with good thermal conductivity. For example, the heat sink (520) may be formed of aluminum or copper.

[0100] A heat sink (520) may include a heat sink base (521) that contacts a heat generating portion (511) and a plurality of heat sink fins (522) that protrude from the heat sink base (521) to expand a heat transfer area. The plurality of heat sink fins (522) may protrude upward from the heat sink base (521).

[0101] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a cooling sink (530) that contacts the heat absorbing portion (512) so that heat exchange between the heat absorbing portion (512) and the air inside the first storage chamber (11) is efficiently performed. The cooling sink (530) may be provided on the lower side of the thermoelectric element (510) so as to contact the heat absorbing portion (512).

[0102] A cooling sink (530) may be provided inside the first storage room (11). The cooling sink (530) may cool the first storage room (11) by taking away heat from the first storage room (11) and transferring it to the heat absorbing unit (512). The cooling sink (530) may also be referred to as a cold sink, a cooling sink, a cooling heat sink, a cold heat sink, a cooling heat sink, etc.

[0103] The cooling sink (530) may be formed of a metal material with good thermal conductivity. For example, the cooling sink (530) may be formed of aluminum or copper.

[0104] The cooling sink (530) may include a cooling sink base (531) that contacts the heat absorbing portion (512) and a plurality of cooling fins (532) that protrude from the cooling sink base (531) to expand the heat transfer area. The plurality of cooling fins (532) may protrude downward from the cooling sink base (531). The cooling sink base (531) and the plurality of cooling fins (532) may be formed integrally.

[0105] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a heat dissipation fan (600) that circulates air to ensure efficient heat exchange between the heat dissipation sink (520) and the air outside the main body (100).

[0106] The heat dissipation fan (600) may be provided to suck in air from outside the main body (100) and blow the air toward the heat dissipation sink (520). The heat dissipation fan (600) may be provided to be positioned in a horizontal direction of the heat dissipation sink (520). The heat dissipation fan (600) may be provided on the outside of the main body (100). The heat dissipation fan (600) may be provided on the upper side of the upper wall (110).

[0107] The heat dissipation fan (600) may be a centrifugal fan that draws in air in an axial direction and discharges it in radial directions. The centrifugal fan may include a blower fan. The rotation axis (610) of the heat dissipation fan (600) may be arranged perpendicular to the upper surface of the upper wall (110).

[0108] A thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a fan case (620) in which a heat dissipation fan (600) is installed and guides air blown by the heat dissipation fan (600). The rotation axis (610) of the heat dissipation fan (600) may be installed perpendicular to the bottom of the fan case (620) (see FIG. 7).

[0109] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a heat dissipation duct (700) provided to guide air flowing by a heat dissipation fan (600). The heat dissipation duct (700) may guide air from outside the main body (100) to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink (520), and may discharge the air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) back to the outside of the main body (100).

[0110] The heat dissipation duct (700) can draw in air from the external space on the upper side of the main body (100). The heat dissipation duct (700) can discharge air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to the external space on the upper side of the main body (100). The heat dissipation fan (600) can be located inside the heat dissipation duct (700). The heat dissipation sink (520) can be located inside the heat dissipation duct (700). The heat dissipation duct (700) can be provided on the upper surface of the upper wall (110).

[0111] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include an outside air intake port (741) that draws air outside the main body (100) into the inside of the heat dissipation duct (700), and an outside air exhaust port (751) that discharges air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to the outside of the main body (100).

[0112] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a cooling fan (800) that circulates air to ensure efficient heat exchange between the cooling sink (530) and the air inside the first storage chamber (11).

[0113] A cooling fan (800) may be provided to suck in air within the first storage chamber (11) and blow the air toward the cooling sink (530). The cooling fan (800) may be positioned in a horizontal direction of the cooling sink (530). The cooling fan (800) may be provided inside the first storage chamber (11). The cooling fan (800) may be provided on the lower side of the upper wall (110).

[0114] The cooling fan (800) may be a centrifugal fan that sucks in air in an axial direction and discharges it in radial directions. The rotation axis (810) of the cooling fan (800) may be arranged perpendicular to the bottom surface of the upper wall (110).

[0115] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a cooling duct (900) provided to guide air flowing by a cooling fan (800). The cooling duct (900) may guide air inside the first storage chamber (11) to exchange heat with the cooling sink (530), and may discharge the air that has exchanged heat with the cooling sink (530) back into the first storage chamber (11).

[0116] The cooling duct (900) may be located on the upper side of the first storage chamber (11). Specifically, the cooling duct (900) may be provided on the lower surface of the upper wall (110).

[0117] A cooling fan (800) may be located inside a cooling duct (900). A cooling sink (530) may be located inside a cooling duct (900).

[0118] The cooling duct (900) may include an intake port (991) provided to draw air within the first storage chamber (11) into the interior of the cooling duct (900), and an exhaust port (992) provided to discharge air that has exchanged heat with the cooling sink (530) into the interior of the first storage chamber (11).

[0119] Referring to FIG. 4, the refrigerator (1) may include a refrigeration cycle device to cool the storage compartment through a refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle device may include a compressor (2), a condenser (not shown), an expansion device (not shown), and an evaporator (3). The evaporator (3) may be provided at the rear of the second storage compartment (12) and the third storage compartment (13).

[0120] The refrigerator (1) may include an evaporator duct (60, 70) that guides cold air generated in the evaporator (3). The evaporator duct (60, 70) may include a first evaporator duct (60) and a second evaporator duct (70). The first evaporator duct (60) may be provided at the rear side of the second storage compartment (12) and the third storage compartment (13). The second evaporator duct (70) may be provided at the rear side of the first storage compartment (11).

[0121] The cold air generated in the evaporator (3) can be sucked into the interior of the first evaporator duct (60) by the evaporator fan (80). The cold air sucked into the interior of the first evaporator duct (60) can be discharged to the second storage chamber (12) or the third storage chamber (13) through a cold air discharge port (not shown) formed on the front. In addition, the cold air sucked into the interior of the first evaporator duct (60) can be guided to the internal passage (71) of the second evaporator duct (70). The first evaporator duct (60) can be provided with a damper (61) that controls the supply of the cold air inside the first evaporator duct (60) to the second evaporator duct (70). A connecting duct (90) may be provided between the first evaporator duct (60) and the second evaporator duct (70) to connect the first evaporator duct (60) and the second evaporator duct (70).

[0122] Cold air introduced into the internal passage (71) of the second evaporator duct (70) can be supplied to the first storage chamber (11) through the cold air discharge port (72) formed on the front of the second evaporator duct (70).

[0123] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerator may include a thermoelectric cooling device and a refrigeration cycle device, but is not limited thereto, and the refrigerator may include only a thermoelectric cooling device (400).

[0124] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a top cover, a dust filter, and a heat dissipation duct separated from the main body according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a heat dissipation duct cover, a heat dissipation duct body, and a thermoelectric module separated from the main body according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the bottom surface of the top cover according to one embodiment.

[0125] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, a through hole (111) connecting the inside of the storage chamber (11) and the outside of the main body (100) may be formed in the upper wall (110) of the main body (100). The main body (100) may include a connecting frame (200) arranged between the inner case (170) and the outer case (180) to form the through hole (111).

[0126] A thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a thermoelectric module (500). The thermoelectric module (500) may include a thermoelectric element (510), a heat sink (520), a cooling sink (530), and a module plate (540). The thermoelectric module (500) may be provided to penetrate a through hole (111) of an upper wall (110) such that the heat sink (520) is positioned outside the main body (100) and the cooling sink (530) is positioned inside the storage chamber (11).

[0127] The module plate (540) can serve as a skeleton of the thermoelectric module. The module plate (540) can be formed of a resin material with low thermal conductivity. The module plate (540) can support a heat sink (520) and a cooling sink (530), respectively. The module plate (540) can be formed integrally with the fan case (620) or can be provided separately.

[0128] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a heat dissipation duct (700) coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) to guide air flowing by the heat dissipation fan (600) to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink (520). The heat dissipation duct (700) may be arranged to suck in air outside the main body (100) to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink (520), and to discharge the air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) back to the outside of the main body (100).

[0129] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a heat dissipation duct cover (710), a heat dissipation duct body (720), and an extension duct (730).

[0130] The heat dissipation duct cover (710) can cover the upper side of the heat dissipation duct body (720). The heat dissipation duct cover (710) can be coupled to the upper part of the heat dissipation duct body (720) so as to cover the upper side of the heat dissipation duct body (720). To this end, the heat dissipation duct cover (710) may be provided with a duct cover coupling part (711), and the heat dissipation duct body (720) may be provided with a duct body coupling part (721) coupled to the duct cover coupling part (711). The duct cover coupling part (711) and the duct body coupling part (721) may be coupled in a hook or fitting manner.

[0131] A heat dissipation duct body (720) can be coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100). The heat dissipation duct body (720) can cover a heat dissipation fan (600) and a heat dissipation sink (520). An outside air intake (741) can be formed on the upper surface of the front portion of the heat dissipation duct body (720). Specifically, the upper surface of the front portion of the heat dissipation duct body (720) can include a bottom (724), a front wall portion (723) extending upward from the front end of the bottom (724), and side wall portions (722) extending upward from both ends of the bottom (724), and the bottom (724), the front wall portion (723), and the side wall portions (722) can form an outside air intake (741).

[0132] An extension duct (730) may be provided in front of the heat dissipation duct body (720). The extension duct (730) may be connected to the heat dissipation duct body (720). The extension duct (730) may be formed integrally with the heat dissipation duct body (720) or may be formed separately from the heat dissipation duct body (720).

[0133] The extension duct (730) may be positioned under the top cover (300). The extension duct (730) may be coupled to the lower part of the top cover (300). The upper side of the extension duct (730) may be covered by the top cover (300).

[0134] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include an outside air intake port (741) designed to intake air from outside the main body. The outside air intake port (741) may be formed in the heat dissipation duct body (720).

[0135] Specifically, the outside air intake port (741) may be formed on the upper surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720). The outside air intake port (741) may be positioned closer to the front of the main body (100) than the rear of the main body (100). In other words, the outside air intake port (741) may be positioned closer to the front end of the upper surface of the main body (100) based on the center of the upper surface of the main body (100).

[0136] In this way, the reason why the outside air intake (741) is located closer to the front of the main body (100) than the rear of the main body (100) is to prevent heat generated in the compressor (2) and evaporator (3) located at the rear of the main body (100) from being sucked in through the outside air intake (741).

[0137] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a plurality of external air exhaust ports (751, 752) that discharge air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to the outside of the main body (100).

[0138] The plurality of external air outlets (751, 752) may include a first external air outlet (751). The first external air outlet (751) may discharge air that has exchanged heat with the heat sink (520) toward the external space on the upper side of the main body (100).

[0139] The plurality of external air outlets (751, 752) may include a second external air outlet (752). The second external air outlet (752) may discharge air that has exchanged heat with the heat sink (520) toward the rotating bar (41). Through this configuration, condensation can be prevented from occurring on the rotating bar (41).

[0140] However, the heat dissipation duct (700) does not necessarily have to include both the first outdoor air discharge port (751) and the second outdoor air discharge port (752). For example, the second outdoor air discharge port (752) may be omitted.

[0141] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a fan accommodation space (761) that accommodates a heat dissipation fan (600). The fan accommodation space (761) may be formed on the bottom surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720).

[0142] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a fan inlet (761a) provided to introduce air into the fan receiving space (761). The fan inlet (761a) may be provided on the upper side of the fan receiving space (761).

[0143] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a sink accommodation space (762) provided to accommodate a heat dissipation sink (520). The sink accommodation space (762) may be formed on the bottom surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720). The sink accommodation space (762) may be formed on the downstream side of the fan accommodation space (761).

[0144] The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include an intake space (771) formed on an upper surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720) to guide air sucked in through an outside air intake port (741) to a fan receiving space (761). The upper side of the intake space (771) may be formed to be open, and the open upper side of the intake space (771) may be covered by a heat dissipation duct cover (710). The intake space (771) may be formed on an upstream side of the fan receiving space (761). The intake space (771) may be connected to the fan receiving space (761) through a fan inlet port (761a).

[0145] The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a first exhaust space (772) formed on an upper surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720) to guide air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to a first outside air outlet (751). The upper side of the first exhaust space (772) may be open, and the open upper side of the first exhaust space may be covered by a heat dissipation duct cover (710). The first exhaust space (772) may be formed on a downstream side of the sink receiving space (762).

[0146] The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a second exhaust space (773) formed on the upper surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720) to guide air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to the second outside air exhaust port (752). The upper side of the second exhaust space (773) may be open, and the open upper side of the second exhaust space (773) may be covered by the heat dissipation duct cover (710). The second exhaust space (773) may be formed on the downstream side of the sink receiving space (762).

[0147] The thermoelectric module (500) and the heat dissipation duct (700) can be connected to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) by at least one fastening member (S2). The at least one fastening member (S2) can sequentially penetrate the heat dissipation duct (700) and the thermoelectric module (500) and be connected to the connecting frame (200) of the main body (100).

[0148] The refrigerator (1) may include a top cover (300) that is coupled to the front portion of the upper wall (110) of the main body (100).

[0149] The top cover (300) may include a top cover upper surface portion (310), a top cover front portion (311) extending downward from a front edge of the top cover upper surface portion (310), top cover side portions (312) extending downward from both side edges of the top cover upper surface portion (310), a top cover rear portion (313) extending downward from a rear edge of the top cover upper surface portion (310), and a top cover inner space (320) formed by the top cover upper surface portion (310), the top cover front portion (311), the top cover side portions (312), and the top cover rear portion (313). The lower side of the top cover inner space (320) may be open, and the lower side of the top cover inner space (320) may be covered by the upper surface of the upper wall (110).

[0150] The top cover (300) may include a front protrusion (311a) that protrudes forward from both ends of the front portion (311) of the top cover to cover the hinge (30).

[0151] The top cover (300) may include an exhaust port forming portion (311b) formed on the front surface (311) of the top cover (300) to form a second outside air exhaust port (752) together with an extension duct (730). The exhaust port forming portion (311b) may protrude forward from the front surface (311) of the top cover.

[0152] The top cover (300) can be coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) via at least one fastening member (S1). After the thermoelectric module (500) and the heat dissipation duct (700) are coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100), the top cover (300) can be coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100).

[0153] At least a portion of the top cover (300) may be positioned on the upper side of the heat dissipation duct (700) so as to overlap with the heat dissipation duct (700). Specifically, the air inlet (350) of the top cover (300), which will be described later, may be positioned to cover the outside air intake (741) of the heat dissipation duct (700).

[0154] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a dust filter (390) provided to filter out foreign substances such as dust from air flowing into the outside air intake (741). The dust filter (390) may be detachably mounted on the top cover (300). Specifically, the dust filter (390) may be detachably mounted in the filter receiving space (360) by sliding in the front-back direction.

[0155] The top cover (300) may include a filter receiving space (360) provided to receive a dust filter (390). An air inlet (350), which will be described later, may be provided on one side of the filter receiving space (360). The filter receiving space (360) may be provided at a position corresponding to an outside air intake (741) of a heat dissipation duct (700). When the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the dust filter (390) may be supported by a fixed rail portion (371) and a front support portion (372), which will be described later.

[0156] At least a portion of the air discharged from the heat dissipation duct (700) through the first external air discharge port (751) may be introduced into the top cover internal space (320). That is, a portion of the air warmed by heat exchange with the heat dissipation sink (520) may be introduced into the top cover internal space (320). To this end, a top cover inlet (330) may be formed in the top cover (300). The top cover inlet (330) may be formed in the top cover rear portion (313).

[0157] The first outside air exhaust port (751) may include a connection port (751a) provided to guide air inside the heat dissipation duct (700) into the top cover internal space (320). The connection port (751a) may be connected to the top cover inlet port (330) of the top cover (300). Air exhausted through the connection port (751a) may be introduced into the top cover internal space (320) through the top cover inlet port (330).

[0158] The first external air exhaust port (751) may include an external exhaust port (751b) separated from a connection port (751a) to exhaust air from the heat dissipation duct (700) to the outside of the top cover (300). An exhaust grill may be formed in the external exhaust port (751b) to prevent foreign substances from entering the interior of the heat dissipation duct (700) through the external exhaust port (751b).

[0159] Air introduced into the top cover internal space (320) can pass through the top cover internal space (320) and be discharged to the outside of the top cover (300). For this purpose, the top cover (300) may include a top cover outlet (340). The top cover outlet (340) may be formed in a front protrusion (311a) of the top cover (300). The top cover outlet (340) may be formed in a front protrusion (311a) that is further away from the top cover inlet (330) among the front protrusions (311a). That is, the top cover inlet (330) may be formed close to the right hinge, and the top cover outlet (340) may be formed close to the left hinge.

[0160] The top cover outlet (340) can be formed on the upper surface of the front protrusion (311a). Through this configuration, air discharged through the top cover outlet (340) can be prevented from being re-inhaled into the outside air intake (741).

[0161] The air that has exchanged heat with the heat sink (520) can heat the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) while passing through the inner space (320) of the top cover. Through this configuration, condensation on the upper front surface of the main body (100) can be prevented.

[0162] The top cover (300) may be provided with a top cover connecting portion (380) that is connected to an extension duct (730). The top cover connecting portion (380) may be connected to the extension duct (730) in a hook or fitting manner.

[0163] The top cover (300) may be provided with a filter sensor (373) that detects whether a dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360). The top cover (300) may be provided with a sensor mounting portion (373a) on which the filter sensor (373) is mounted.

[0164] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating the flow of air through a heat dissipation fan, a heat dissipation duct, and a top cover according to one embodiment.

[0165] Referring to FIG. 9, the refrigerator (1) may include a first heat dissipation passage (401) through which air that has exchanged heat with a heat sink (520) is discharged to the outside of the main body (100), and a second heat dissipation passage (402) through which air that has exchanged heat with the heat sink (520) is discharged toward the rotary bar (41). The second heat dissipation passage (402) may be formed by branching off from the first heat dissipation passage (401).

[0166] Some of the air sucked in through the outside air intake port (741) can be discharged to the outside of the main body (100) through the first heat dissipation passage (401). That is, some of the air sucked in through the outside air intake port (741) can be discharged to the outside of the main body (100) through the first outside air exhaust port (751) after heat exchange with the heat dissipation sink (520) (“Exhaust 1” in FIG. 9).

[0167] Another portion of the air sucked in through the outside air intake (741) may be discharged to the outside of the main body (100) through the first heat dissipation passage (401) and the top cover passage (301). That is, a portion of the air sucked in through the outside air intake (741) may be discharged to the outside of the main body (100) through the top cover outlet (340) formed in the top cover (300) after exchanging heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) through the inside of the top cover (300) (“Exhaust 2” in FIG. 9).

[0168] Some of the air sucked in through the outside air intake (741) can be discharged toward the rotary bar (41) through the second heat dissipation path (402). That is, some of the air sucked in through the outside air intake (741) can be discharged downward toward the rotary bar (41) through the second outside air exhaust (752) after heat exchange with the heat dissipation sink (520) (“Exhaust 3” in FIG. 9).

[0169] Fig. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a dust filter according to one embodiment. Fig. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a bottom surface of the dust filter illustrated in Fig. 10. Fig. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a dust filter is mounted on a top cover according to one embodiment. Fig. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a dust filter is separated from the top cover illustrated in Fig. 12. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Fig. 12. Fig. 15 is an enlarged view of area A illustrated in Fig. 14. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in Fig. 12. Fig. 17 is an enlarged view of area B illustrated in Fig. 16.

[0170] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 17, the structure of a dust filter (390) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be specifically described.

[0171] As described above, the heat dissipation duct (700) includes an outside air intake port (741) formed on the upper surface of the heat dissipation duct (700) to suck in air from outside the main body into the inside of the heat dissipation duct (700), and a dust filter (390) may be placed in the outside air intake port (741) to prevent foreign substances from entering through the outside air intake port (741).

[0172] The dust filter (390) may include a filter member (393) for filtering foreign substances such as dust in the air, and a filter frame (391) for supporting the filter member (393). The filter member (393) may be various types of filter members for filtering or removing pollutants, bacteria, viruses, dust, etc. in the air. The filter member (393) may have a mesh shape.

[0173] The filter frame (391) may be formed to surround the filter member (393). The filter frame (391) may have a generally rectangular shape. The filter frame (391) may support the filter member (393) so that the filter member (393) is spread out flat.

[0174] The filter frame (391) may include a reinforcing rib (391a) provided to prevent the dust filter (390) from bending. The reinforcing rib (391a) may be provided at the rear end of the filter frame (391). Specifically, the reinforcing rib (391a) may be formed to protrude upward from the rear end of the filter frame (391). The reinforcing rib (391a) may extend in the left-right direction. The reinforcing rib (391a) may be provided at the rear of the filter member (393). However, the position of the reinforcing rib (391a) is not limited thereto.

[0175] The filter frame (391) may include a rear wall (391b) provided at the rear end of the filter frame (391). Specifically, the rear wall (391b) may be formed to protrude upward from the rear end of the filter frame (391). The rear wall (391b) may be formed at the rearmost end of a plane on which the filter member (393) is formed.

[0176] The top cover (300) may include a blocking wall (374) provided at the rear side of the filter receiving space (360). The blocking wall (374) may be provided at the rear side of the air inlet (350). The blocking wall (374) may be formed to extend downward from a plane on which the air inlet (350) is formed.

[0177] When the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the rear wall (391b) of the filter frame (391) and the blocking wall (374) of the top cover (300) can come into contact with each other. Through this configuration, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), it is possible to prevent dust filtered by the filter member (393) from moving to the rear of the filter frame (391) and flowing into the heat dissipation duct (700).

[0178] The dust filter (390) may include a handle (394) formed to be recessed in the upper surface of the front portion (396a) of the dust filter (390). When the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the handle (394) may be located at the front of the top cover (300). A user of the refrigerator (1) may mount the dust filter (390) in the filter receiving space (360) or detach the dust filter (390) from the filter receiving space (360) by holding the handle (394) located at the front of the top cover (300).

[0179] As described above, the dust filter (390) can be detachably mounted in the filter receiving space (360) by sliding forward and backward. Specifically, the dust filter (390) can be mounted in the filter receiving space (360) of the top cover (300) by sliding backward, and can be detached from the filter receiving space (360) by sliding forward.

[0180] To this end, the dust filter (390) may include a pair of movable rail parts (392) formed to extend in the front-back direction on the filter frame (391). The pair of movable rail parts (392) may be formed on one side and the other side of the filter frame (391), respectively. The pair of fixed rail parts (370) may be supported by the side wall part (722) of the heat dissipation duct body (720).

[0181] Each of a pair of movable rail portions (392) may be formed by protruding from one end and the other end of the filter frame (391). Specifically, each of a pair of movable rail portions (392) may include a vertical movable rail portion (392b) extending upward from a plane on which the filter member (393) is formed, and a horizontal movable rail portion (392a) extending horizontally from the vertical movable rail portion (392b).

[0182] A pair of fixed rail parts (371) that slidably support a pair of movable rail parts (392) of a dust filter (390) may be formed on the top cover (300). That is, a pair of movable rail parts (392) of a dust filter (390) may be slidably supported by a pair of fixed rail parts (371). A pair of fixed rail parts (371) may be provided on one side and the other side of a filter receiving space (360), respectively.

[0183] Each of the pair of fixed rail parts (371) may include a horizontal fixed rail part (371a) extending horizontally to support a horizontal movable rail part (392a), and a vertical fixed rail part (371b) extending downward from the horizontal fixed rail part (371a) to support a vertical movable rail part (392b).

[0184] In this way, since the horizontal movable rail part (392a) of the dust filter (390) can be supported by the horizontal fixed rail part (371a) of the top cover (300), and the vertical movable rail part (392b) of the dust filter (390) can be supported by the vertical fixed rail part (371b) of the top cover (300), the dust filter (390) can be stably supported in the vertical and horizontal directions on the top cover (300).

[0185] However, the dust filter (390) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be mounted in the filter receiving space (360) in a manner other than a sliding manner. For example, the dust filter (390) according to one embodiment may be mounted by being vertically seated in the filter receiving space (360) from the outside of the top cover (300), and may be vertically lifted and separated from the filter receiving space (360).

[0186] The dust filter (390) may include a fixing protrusion (396a) formed to protrude from the lower surface of the front portion (396a) of the filter frame (391). When the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360) of the top cover (300), the fixing protrusion (396a) may be coupled to the top cover (300) to maintain the mounting state of the dust filter (390).

[0187] The top cover (300) may include a front support portion (372) that supports the front portion (395) of the filter frame (391). A fixing hole (372a) into which a fixing projection (396a) of a dust filter (390) is inserted may be formed in the front support portion (372). When the fixing projection (396a) of the dust filter (390) is inserted into the fixing hole (372a) of the top cover (300), the dust filter (390) may be fixed to the top cover (300).

[0188] As described above, the top cover (300) may be provided with a filter sensor (373) that detects whether a dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360). In addition, the top cover (300) may include a sensor mounting portion (373a) on which the filter sensor (373) is mounted.

[0189] The sensor mounting portion (373a) may be formed on the front of the top cover (300). The filter sensor (373) may be a reed switch including a plurality of lead pieces that can be brought into contact with or separated from each other by magnetic force. However, the filter sensor (373) is not limited thereto, and may include various sensors, such as a proximity sensor or a sensor using infrared wavelengths.

[0190] The dust filter (390) may be provided with a magnet (396) that can magnetically interact with the reed switch. The dust filter (390) may include a magnet mounting portion (396a) on which the magnet (396) may be mounted. When the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the magnet mounting portion (396a) of the dust filter (390) may be formed at a position corresponding to the sensor mounting portion (373a) of the top cover (300). Specifically, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the magnet (396) of the dust filter (390) may be positioned in a vertical direction of the filter sensor (373) of the top cover (300).

[0191] The filter sensor (373) can be turned on or off depending on the distance from the magnet (396). For example, the filter sensor (373) can be turned off when the distance from the magnet (396) is less than a predetermined distance, and can be turned on when the distance from the magnet (396) is greater than the predetermined distance.

[0192] The refrigerator (1) can determine whether a dust filter (390) is installed based on the status information of the filter sensor (373). If the refrigerator (1) determines that the dust filter (390) is not installed, it can be arranged to notify the user that the dust filter (390) is not installed through a display or speaker, etc.

[0193] The top cover (300) may include an air inlet (350) provided on the upper side of the filter receiving space (360). The air inlet (350) may guide air sucked in through the outside air intake port (741). Specifically, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), air sucked in through the outside air intake port (741) may pass through the air inlet (350) and the dust filter (390) and be introduced into the heat dissipation duct (700).

[0194] The air inlet (350) may include a plurality of grilles (351) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of grilles (351) may be arranged in a front-back direction. An opening may be formed between two adjacent grilles (351) to allow air to be introduced.

[0195] When the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the air inlet (350) can primarily block foreign substances from being sucked into the interior of the heat dissipation duct (700) before the dust filter (390) through the plurality of grills (351). In addition, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the air inlet (350) can protect the dust filter (390) by blocking external force from being applied to the dust filter (390) through the plurality of grills (351).

[0196] Each of the plurality of grills (351) may be formed to slope downwards as they go toward the rear. In other words, each of the plurality of grills (351) may be formed to slope at a predetermined angle (a) with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0197] The air inlet (350) may include grille reinforcing ribs (352) protruding downward from a plurality of grilles (351). The grille reinforcing ribs (352) may extend in a direction intersecting each of the plurality of grilles (351). The grille reinforcing ribs (352) may extend along the central portion of each of the plurality of grilles (351) in the left-right direction. Through the grille reinforcing ribs (352), the rigidity of each of the plurality of grills (351) may be improved.

[0198] The refrigerator (1) can determine the time for cleaning and replacing the dust filter (390) based on information such as the number of revolutions per minute of the heat dissipation fan (600). When the refrigerator (1) determines that the time for cleaning and replacing the dust filter (390) has arrived, the refrigerator (1) can be arranged to notify the user of the need for cleaning and replacing the dust filter (390) through a display or speaker, etc.

[0199] As described above, the dust filter (390) is positioned on the upper wall (110) of the main body (100), and the dust filter (390) can be mounted and detached from the top cover (300) by sliding forward and backward, so that mounting, detachment, cleaning, and replacement of the dust filter (390) can be facilitated. As a result, the performance of the thermoelectric cooling device (400) can be continuously maintained.

[0200] Although the embodiment in which the dust filter (390) is mounted on the top cover (300) has been described above, the dust filter (390) may be mounted on the heat dissipation duct (700) instead of the top cover (300) depending on the embodiment. In this case, the top cover (300) and the heat dissipation duct (700) may be mounted so as not to overlap each other, or the top cover (300) itself may be omitted.

[0201] The filter frame (391) may include a rear rib (397) provided at the rear end of the filter frame (391). Specifically, the rear rib (397) may be formed to protrude upward from the rear end of the filter frame (391). In other words, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (397) may be formed to protrude from the rear end of the filter frame (391) toward the air inlet (350). When the dust filter (390) is separated from the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (397) may prevent dust filtered by the filter member (393) from moving to the rear of the filter frame (391) and flowing into the heat dissipation duct (700).

[0202] The rear rib (397) may protrude approximately perpendicularly to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed. In other words, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (397) may protrude toward the rear end of the air inlet (350).

[0203] The rear rib (397) may be provided at the rear of the filter member (393). That is, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (397) may be positioned rearward of the filter member (393). Since the dust filtered by the filter member (393) accumulates on the filter member (393), the rear rib (397) may be positioned rearward of the dust filtered by the filter member (393). Through this configuration, when the dust filter (390) mounted in the filter receiving space (360) slides forward and is separated from the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (397) may prevent the dust filtered by the filter member (393) from moving to the rear of the filter frame (391) and flowing into the heat dissipation duct (700).

[0204] The rear rib (397) may be provided in front of the rear wall (391b) of the filter frame (391). Specifically, the rear rib (397) may be provided between the filter member (393) and the rear wall (391b). More specifically, the rear rib (397) may be provided between the reinforcing rib (391a) and the rear wall (391b).

[0205] As described above, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the rear wall (391b) of the filter frame (391) and the blocking wall (374) of the top cover (300) are in contact with each other, thereby preventing dust filtered by the filter member (393) from moving to the rear of the filter frame (391) and flowing into the heat dissipation duct (700). However, when the dust filter (390) is separated from the filter receiving space (360), the rear wall (391b) and the blocking wall (374) may no longer be in contact. At this time, since the dust filter (390) is separated from the filter receiving space (360) with the rear wall (391b) positioned apart from the air inlet (350), the dust filtered by the filter member (393) can move between the rear wall (391b) and the air inlet (350) and be introduced into the heat dissipation duct (700).

[0206] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the rear rib (397) may have a height greater than the rear wall (391b) of the filter frame (391). Specifically, with respect to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed, the height (H1) of the rear rib (397) may be greater than the height (H2) of the rear wall (391b). In other words, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (397) and the rear wall (391b) may each be provided to be spaced apart from the air inlet (350), and the distance between the rear rib (397) and the air inlet (350) may be formed to be shorter than the distance between the rear wall (391b) and the air inlet (350). Accordingly, the rear rib (397) can prevent dust filtered by the filter member (393) from moving between the rear wall (391b) and the air inlet (350), thereby preventing dust from entering the heat dissipation duct (700).

[0207] The rear rib (397) may extend in a direction parallel to the rear wall (391b) of the filter frame (391). In other words, the rear rib (397) may extend in the left-right direction.

[0208] The rear rib (397) can be connected to a pair of movable rail parts (392), respectively. Specifically, the rear rib (397) can be connected to a pair of vertical movable rail parts (392b). That is, one end of the rear rib (397) can be connected to a vertical movable rail part (392b) on one side, and the other end of the rear rib (397) can be connected to a movable rail part (392b) on the other side.

[0209] As described above, each of the pair of movable rail parts (392) may be formed to protrude from one end and the other end of the filter frame (391). The pair of movable rail parts (392) may not only have the function of stably supporting the dust filter (390), but may also have the function of preventing dust filtered by the filter member (393) from moving to the left or right of the filter frame (391) and flowing into the heat dissipation duct (700).

[0210] With respect to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed, the rear rib (397) may have a height lower than that of the pair of movable rail parts (392). However, this is not limited thereto, and the rear rib (397) may also have the same height as that of the pair of movable rail parts (392) (see Fig. 18). This will be described in detail later.

[0211] The rear rib (397) may have a first extension portion (397a), a second extension portion (397b), and a step portion (397c).

[0212] The first extension portion (397a) may extend from the vertical movable rail portion (392b) on one side, and the second extension portion (397b) may extend from the vertical movable rail portion (392b) on the other side. With respect to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed, the first extension portion (397a) and the second extension portion (397b) may have the same height. In addition, with respect to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed, the first extension portion (397a) and the second extension portion (397b) may extend in the same direction.

[0213] The step portion (397c) may have a height lower than that of the first extension portion (397a) or the second extension portion (397b) with respect to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed. The step portion (397c) may be provided between the first extension portion (397a) and the second extension portion (397b). Through this configuration, the step portion (397c) may form a groove portion (397d) together with the first extension portion (397a) and the second extension portion (397b).

[0214] The home portion (397d) can be formed at a position corresponding to the position of the grill reinforcing rib (352) when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360). Through this configuration, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the entry of the dust filter (390) can be prevented from being blocked by the grill reinforcing rib (352).

[0215] As described above, the grille reinforcing rib (352) may extend along the central portion of each of the plurality of grilles (351). Correspondingly, the groove portion (397d) may be formed by being recessed in the central portion of the rear rib (397). In other words, the step portion (397c) may be provided in the central portion of the rear rib (397).

[0216] When the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), a grill reinforcing rib (352) may be provided on the upper side of the step portion (397c), and a plurality of grills (351) may be provided on the upper sides of the first extension portion (397a) and the second extension portion (397b). When the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the distance (W1) at which the first extension portion (397a) is spaced apart from the plurality of grills (351) in the vertical direction may be longer than the distance (W2) at which the step portion (397c) is spaced apart from the grill reinforcing rib (352).

[0217] Through this configuration, when the dust filter (390) is slidably mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the grill reinforcing rib (352) and the step portion (397c) may be in contact, but the first extension portion (397a) and the second extension portion (397c) may not be in contact with the plurality of grills (351). That is, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the grill reinforcing rib (352) and the step portion (397c) may guide the dust filter (390) so that the dust filter (390) is stably inserted into the filter receiving space (360). Accordingly, when the dust filter (390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), noise that may be generated when the first extension (397a) or the second extension (397b) comes into contact with the plurality of grills (351) can be reduced, and damage to the dust filter (390) or the top cover (300) can be prevented.

[0218] Fig. 18 is a perspective view illustrating a dust filter according to one embodiment.

[0219] Hereinafter, a dust filter (1390) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 18. In describing the dust filter (1390), components that are substantially the same as those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 17 are assigned the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0220] Referring to FIG. 18, the filter frame (1391) of the dust filter (1390) may include a rear rib (1397) provided at the rear end of the filter frame (1391). Unlike the rear rib (397) illustrated in FIG. 10 to FIG. 17, the rear rib (1397) illustrated in FIG. 18 may have the same height as the pair of movable rail parts (392). That is, the rear ribs (397, 1397) according to the present disclosure may have a height equal to or lower than the pair of movable rail parts (392) with respect to a plane on which the filter member (393) is formed.

[0221] Fig. 19 is a perspective view illustrating a dust filter according to one embodiment. Fig. 20 is an enlarged view illustrating the contact between the rear rib of the filter frame and the barrier wall of the top cover when the dust filter illustrated in Fig. 19 is mounted on the top cover.

[0222] Hereinafter, a dust filter (2390) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. In describing the dust filter (2390), components that are substantially the same as those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 17 are assigned the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0223] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the filter frame (2391) of the dust filter (2390) may include a rear rib (2397) provided at the rear end of the filter frame (2391). The rear rib (2397) may be formed at the rearmost end of the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed. That is, the rear rib (2397) illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20 may simultaneously perform the functions of the rear side wall (391b) and the rear rib (397) of the filter frame (391) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 17.

[0224] Specifically, when the dust filter (2390) is separated from the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (2397) can prevent dust filtered by the filter member (393) from moving to the rear of the filter frame (2391) and flowing into the heat dissipation duct (700). To this end, with respect to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed, the rear rib (2397) illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20 can have a height greater than the rear wall (391b) of the filter frame (391) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 17.

[0225] In addition, when the dust filter (2390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (2397) of the filter frame (2391) and the blocking wall (3740) of the top cover (3000) come into contact with each other, thereby preventing dust filtered by the filter member (393) from moving to the rear of the filter frame (2391) and flowing into the heat dissipation duct (700). At this time, the length by which the blocking wall (3740) of the top cover (3000) illustrated in FIG. 20 extends may be shorter than the length by which the blocking wall (374) of the top cover (300) illustrated in FIG. 15 extends.

[0226] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator (1) comprises a main body (100), a thermoelectric element (510) provided on an upper wall (110) of the main body (100) and having a heat generating portion (511) and a heat absorbing portion (512), a heat sink (520) provided to be in contact with the heat generating portion (511), a heat dissipation fan (600) for generating air flow, an outside air intake port (741) and an outside air exhaust port (751, 752), and a heat dissipation duct (700) coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) to guide air flowing by the heat dissipation fan (600) to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink (520), a top cover (300, 3000) including a filter receiving space (360) provided at a position corresponding to the outside air intake port (741), and a dust filter (390, 1390, 2390). The dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) includes a filter member (393) for filtering dust in the air and a filter frame (391, 1391, 2391) for supporting the filter member (393). The filter frame (391, 1391, 2391) includes a rear rib (397, 1397, 2397) protruding upward from the filter frame (391, 1391, 2391) to prevent dust filtered by the filter member (393) from flowing into the heat dissipation duct (700) when the dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) is separated from the filter receiving space (360).

[0227] The above dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) can be mounted in the filter receiving space (360) by sliding backward, and can be separated from the filter receiving space (360) by sliding forward.

[0228] The top cover (300, 3000) may include a pair of fixed rail parts (371) provided on one side and the other side of the filter receiving space (360). The filter frame (391, 1391, 2391) may include a pair of movable rail parts (392) formed on one side and the other side of the filter frame (391, 1391, 2391) so as to be slidably supported by the pair of fixed rail parts (371).

[0229] The above rear ribs (397, 1397, 2397) may be provided at the rear of the filter member (393).

[0230] The top cover (300) may further include a blocking wall (374) provided at the rear side of the filter receiving space (360). The filter frame (391, 1391) may further include a rear wall (391b) provided at the rear end of the filter frame (391, 1391), which is in contact with the blocking wall (374) to prevent dust filtered by the dust filter (390, 1390) from flowing into the heat dissipation duct (700) when the dust filter (390, 1390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360). The rear rib (397, 1397) may be provided between the filter member (393) and the rear wall (391b).

[0231] With respect to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed, the rear rib (397, 1397) may have a height greater than the rear wall (391b).

[0232] The above rear rib (397, 1397) can extend in a direction parallel to the rear side wall (391b).

[0233] The above filter frame (391, 1391) may further include a reinforcing rib (391a) provided at the rear end of the filter frame (391, 1391) to prevent the dust filter (390, 1390) from bending. The rear rib (397, 1397) may be provided between the reinforcing rib (391a) and the rear wall (391b).

[0234] The above rear ribs (397, 1397, 2397) can be connected to each of the pair of movable rail parts (392).

[0235] Each of the pair of movable rail parts (392) may be formed to protrude from one end and the other end of the filter frame (391, 1391, 2391). With respect to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed, the rear rib (397, 1397, 2397) may have a height equal to or lower than that of the pair of movable rail parts (392).

[0236] The top cover (300, 3000) may further include an air inlet (350) provided on the upper side of the filter receiving space (360). When the dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (397, 1397, 2397) may be provided spaced apart from the air inlet (350).

[0237] The air inlet (350) may include a plurality of grills (351) arranged to be spaced apart from each other and grill reinforcing ribs (352) extending in a direction intersecting each of the plurality of grills (351) and protruding downward from the plurality of grills (351). The rear ribs (397, 1397, 2397) may include a groove (397d) formed at a position corresponding to the position of the grill reinforcing ribs (352) when the dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360).

[0238] The above-mentioned home portion (397d) can be formed by being sunken in the central portion of the rear rib (397, 1397, 2397).

[0239] The rear rib (397, 1397, 2397) may further include first and second extension portions (397a, 397b) that have the same height with respect to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed and extend in the same direction, and a step portion (397c) that has a height smaller than the first extension portion (397a) with respect to the plane on which the filter member (393) is formed, and a step portion (397c) that is provided between the first extension portion (397a) and the second extension portion (397b) to form the groove portion (397d) together with the first extension portion (397a) and the second extension portion (397b). When the above dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the distance between the first extension portion (397a) and the plurality of grills (351) in the vertical direction may be longer than the distance between the step portion (397c) and the grill reinforcing rib (352).

[0240] The top cover (3000) may further include a blocking wall (3740) provided at the rear side of the filter receiving space (360). The rear rib (2397) may be provided to be in contact with the blocking wall (3740) to prevent dust filtered by the dust filter (2390) from flowing into the heat dissipation duct (700) when the dust filter (2390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360).

[0241] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment comprises a main body (100), a thermoelectric element (510) provided on an upper wall (110) of the main body (100) and having a heat generating portion (511) and a heat absorbing portion (512), a heat sink (520) provided to be in contact with the heat generating portion (511), a heat dissipation fan (600) for generating air flow, a heat dissipation duct (700) coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) to guide air flowing by the heat dissipation fan (600) to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink (520), a filter receiving space (360) provided at a position corresponding to the outside air intake (741) and an air inlet (350) provided on one side of the filter receiving space (360), and the A dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) is included that is detachably mounted in the filter receiving space (360) of the top cover (300, 3000). The dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) includes a filter member (393) for filtering dust in the air and a filter frame (391, 1391, 2391) that supports the filter member (393). The filter frame (391, 1391, 2391) includes a rear rib (397, 1397, 2397) that protrudes from the rear end of the filter frame (391, 1391, 2391) toward the air inlet (350) when the dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360).

[0242] When the above dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (397, 1397, 2397) can protrude toward the rear end of the air inlet (350).

[0243] When the above dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360), the rear rib (397, 1397, 2397) may be provided spaced apart from the air inlet (350).

[0244] The air inlet (350) may include a plurality of grills (351) spaced apart from each other and grill reinforcing ribs (352) protruding downward from the plurality of grills (351). The rear ribs (397, 1397, 2397) may include a groove (397d) formed at a position corresponding to the position of the grill reinforcing ribs (352) when the dust filter (390, 1390, 2390) is mounted in the filter receiving space (360).

[0245] The above-mentioned home portion (397d) can be formed by being sunken in the central portion of the rear rib (397, 1397, 2397).

[0246] According to the invention, a dust filter can be detachably and slidably mounted on the top cover of a refrigerator. When the dust filter is mounted on the top cover, the dust filter can filter dust in the air drawn into the heat dissipation duct.

[0247] According to the invention, a rear rib is provided at the rear end of the filter frame of the dust filter. When the dust filter is separated from the top cover, the rear rib can prevent dust filtered by the dust filter from flowing into the heat dissipation duct.

[0248] 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.

[0249] 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 thermoelectric element provided on the upper wall of the main body and having a heat generating portion and a heat absorbing portion; A heat sink provided to come into contact with the above-mentioned heating element; A heat dissipation fan that generates airflow; A heat dissipation duct having an outside air intake and an outside air exhaust, and coupled to the upper wall of the main body to guide air flowing by the heat dissipation fan to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink; A top cover including a filter accommodation space provided at a position corresponding to the above-mentioned outside air intake; and A dust filter that can be detachably mounted in the above filter accommodation space; The above dust filter, A filter member for filtering dust in the air; and A filter frame supporting the filter member; The above filter frame is, A refrigerator comprising a rear rib protruding upward from the filter frame to prevent dust filtered by the filter member from flowing into the heat dissipation duct when the dust filter is separated from the filter receiving space.

2. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the dust filter is mounted in the filter receiving space by sliding backward and separated from the filter receiving space by sliding forward.

3. In paragraph 2, The above top cover includes a pair of fixed rails provided on one side and the other side of the filter accommodation space, A refrigerator comprising a pair of movable rail parts formed on one side and the other side of the filter frame so as to be slidably supported by the pair of fixed rail parts.

4. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the above rear rib is provided at the rear of the above filter member.

5. In paragraph 4, The above top cover further includes a blocking wall provided on the rear side of the filter accommodation space, The above filter frame is, A rear wall provided at the rear end of the filter frame, further comprising a rear wall in contact with the blocking wall to prevent dust filtered by the dust filter from flowing into the heat dissipation duct when the dust filter is mounted in the filter receiving space. A refrigerator in which the rear rib is provided between the filter member and the rear side wall.

6. In paragraph 5, A refrigerator in which the rear rib has a height greater than the rear side wall, with respect to the plane on which the filter member is formed.

7. In paragraph 5, A refrigerator in which the rear rib extends in a direction parallel to the rear side wall.

8. In paragraph 5, The filter frame further includes a reinforcing rib provided at the rear end of the filter frame to prevent the dust filter from bending, A refrigerator in which the rear rib is provided between the reinforcing rib and the rear side wall.

9. In paragraph 3, The above rear ribs are each connected to a pair of movable rails in the refrigerator.

10. In paragraph 3, Each of the above pair of movable rail parts is formed by protruding from one end and the other end of the filter frame, A refrigerator in which the rear rib has a height equal to or lower than the pair of movable rail parts with respect to the plane on which the filter member is formed.

11. In paragraph 1, The above top cover further includes an air inlet provided on the upper side of the filter accommodation space, A refrigerator in which the rear rib is provided spaced apart from the air inlet when the dust filter is mounted in the filter receiving space.

12. In paragraph 11, The above air inlet is, a plurality of grills spaced apart from each other; and It includes a grill reinforcing rib extending in a direction intersecting each of the plurality of grills and protruding downward from the plurality of grills, The above rear rib, A refrigerator including a groove formed at a position corresponding to the position of the grill reinforcing rib when the dust filter is mounted in the filter receiving space.

13. In paragraph 12, A refrigerator in which the above home portion is formed by being sunken in the center of the above rear rib.

14. In paragraph 12, The above rear rib, First and second extension parts having the same height and extending in the same direction relative to the plane on which the filter member is formed; and A step portion having a height smaller than that of the first extension portion with respect to the plane on which the filter member is formed, and further including a step portion provided between the first extension portion and the second extension portion to form the groove portion together with the first extension portion and the second extension portion, A refrigerator in which, when the dust filter is mounted in the filter receiving space, the distance between the first extension and the plurality of grills in the vertical direction is longer than the distance between the step and the grill reinforcing rib.

15. In paragraph 1, The above top cover further includes a blocking wall provided on the rear side of the filter accommodation space, The above rear rib, A refrigerator in which the dust filter is provided in contact with the blocking wall to prevent dust filtered by the dust filter from flowing into the heat dissipation duct when the dust filter is installed in the filter receiving space.

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