Refrigerator including camera

Abstract

This refrigerator may include a main body, a storage compartment formed inside the main body, a door rotatably provided to open and close the storage compartment, and a camera mountable on the main body so as to be disposed on the upper side and / or the lower side of the storage compartment. The camera can be provided at a first position while the door opens the storage compartment, and can be provided at a second position while the door closes the storage compartment.

Description

Refrigerator with camera

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator including a camera.

[0002] A refrigerator is a device that maintains food freshness by including a main body with a storage compartment and a cooling system that supplies cold air to the storage compartment. The storage compartment includes a refrigerator compartment, which is maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius and used to refrigerate food, and a freezer compartment, which is maintained at approximately 0 to -30 degrees Celsius and used to freeze food. A door is provided on the front of the main body, allowing the storage compartment to be opened and closed. The door is rotatably located on the front of the main body, allowing the storage compartment to be opened and closed.

[0003] A refrigerator is a device that stores and preserves food. Food can be brought into a storage room for storage or taken out of a storage room for use.

[0004] Traditional refrigerators were limited to simply keeping food cold. However, in recent years, the need for additional functions beyond food storage has been increasing.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator with improved ease of use.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator that facilitates food management.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a camera capable of photographing food being placed into or taken out of a storage room.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a camera capable of photographing food stored in a storage compartment.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a camera capable of photographing the exterior and interior of a storage compartment.

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

[0011] A refrigerator according to the invention may include: a main body; a storage compartment formed inside the main body; a door rotatably provided to open and close the storage compartment; and a camera mountable on the main body so as to be positioned on at least one of an upper side or a lower side of the storage compartment. The camera is switchable between a first position, in which the camera protrudes forward of the storage compartment while the door opens the storage compartment, and a lens of the camera is provided to face the outside of the storage compartment; and a second position, in which the camera is inserted into the main body from the first position while the door closes the storage compartment, and a lens of the camera is provided to face the inside of the storage compartment.

[0012] A camera assembly according to the present disclosure can be installed in a refrigerator including a main body forming a storage compartment and a door rotatably provided to open and close the storage compartment. The camera assembly may include: a fixed frame mountable to the main body; a movable frame extendable from the fixed frame and movable to be introduced into the fixed frame; and a camera accommodated in the movable frame and provided to be linked to the movement of the movable frame. While the door opens the storage compartment, the movable frame may be introduced from the fixed frame, and the camera may be provided to capture an image of food entering the storage compartment. While the door closes the storage compartment, the movable frame may be introduced into the fixed frame, and the camera may be provided to capture an image of food stored in the storage compartment.

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a camera assembly according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 illustrates the camera assembly illustrated in Figure 2 from another direction.

[0016] Figure 4 is an exploded view of a camera assembly according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 illustrates the camera assembly illustrated in Figure 4 from another direction.

[0018] Figure 6 illustrates an open state of a storage compartment of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 schematically illustrates a cross-section of the camera assembly illustrated in Figure 6.

[0020] Figure 8 schematically illustrates the interior of the camera assembly illustrated in Figure 6.

[0021] FIG. 9 illustrates a closed state of a storage compartment of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 10 schematically illustrates a cross-section of the camera assembly illustrated in Figure 9.

[0023] Figure 11 schematically illustrates the interior of the camera assembly illustrated in Figure 9.

[0024] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 13 illustrates the storage compartment of the refrigerator illustrated in Figure 12 in an open state.

[0026] Figure 14 illustrates a state in which the storage compartment of the refrigerator illustrated in Figure 12 is closed.

[0027] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 16 illustrates the storage compartment of the refrigerator illustrated in Figure 15 in an open state.

[0029] Figure 17 illustrates a state in which the storage compartment of the refrigerator illustrated in Figure 15 is closed.

[0030] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a camera assembly according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 20 illustrates a camera assembly according to one embodiment from another direction.

[0033] Fig. 21 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 22 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0035] 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.

[0036] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0040] 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).

[0041] 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.

[0042] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the present disclosure, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0046] The “body” may include an inner case, an outer case placed on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0047] The "inner case" may include at least one of a case, plate, panel, or liner forming a storage compartment. The inner case may be formed as a single body, or may be formed by assembling a plurality of plates. The "outer case" may form the outer appearance of the 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.

[0048] "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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] A refrigerator may include one or more storage compartments. When a refrigerator includes two or more storage compartments, each compartment may have a different purpose and be maintained at different temperatures. To achieve this, each storage compartment may be separated from the others by a partition wall containing insulation.

[0052] The storage room may be provided to be maintained at an appropriate temperature range depending on the intended use, and may include a "refrigerator," a "freezer," or a "variable temperature room," which are distinguished according to the intended use and / or temperature range. The refrigerator room may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for refrigerating items, and the freezer room 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 room 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 in a frozen state, and for example, a freezer room may be maintained at a temperature ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. The variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator room or a freezer room, at the user's option or not.

[0053] 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.

[0054] According to 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0061] 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.

[0062] In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle that includes the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold air supply device can include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can include a semiconductor, such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool a storage compartment by generating heat and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0063] 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.

[0064] The "machine room" may be designed to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated by components placed within the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to be connected to the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed within the machine room.

[0065] 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.

[0066] According to 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.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0076] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0077] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0078] Meanwhile, the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", etc. used in the following description are defined based on the drawing, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, the terms "front" and "rear" below may mean the front and rear of the refrigerator in the X direction based on the drawing, respectively. The terms "upper" and "lower" below may mean the upper side in the Z direction of the refrigerator and the lower side in the Z direction, respectively, based on the drawing. The terms "left" and "right" below may mean the left side in the Y direction of the refrigerator and the right side in the Y direction, respectively, based on the drawing.

[0079] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 1, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body (10), a storage compartment (20) provided inside the main body (10), and a door (30) for opening and closing the storage compartment (20). The refrigerator (1) may include a cooling system for supplying cold air to the storage compartment (20).

[0081] The main body (10) may include an outer case (13) that forms the exterior of the refrigerator (1). The outer case (13) may be formed to have a shape of a box with an open front. The outer case (13) may form the top, bottom, left and right sides, and rear of the refrigerator (1).

[0082] The main body (10) may include an inner case (11) forming a storage compartment (20). The inner case (11) may be open at the front. The inner case (11) may have a storage compartment (20) provided therein, and may be provided on the inner side of the outer case (13). The inner wall of the inner case (11) may form the inner wall of the storage compartment (20).

[0083] The main body (10) may include a main body insulation material (12). The main body insulation material (12) may be placed between the outer case (13) and the inner case (11) so that the outer case (13) and the inner case (11) can be insulated from each other.

[0084] A storage compartment (20) may be formed on the inside of the main body (10). The storage compartment (20) may be configured to store various items such as food. For example, the storage compartment (20) may have a shape that is open toward the front.

[0085] For example, the main body (10) may include an upper wall (10a), a lower wall (10b), a rear wall (10c), a left wall (10d), and a right wall defining a storage compartment (20) (see FIGS. 6, 9, 13, 14, 16, and 17). For example, the upper wall (10a), the lower wall (10b), the rear wall (10c), the left wall (10d), and the right wall may be formed by an inner case (11). For reference, in the drawing, for convenience of explanation, the upper wall (10a), the lower wall (10b), the rear wall (10c), the left wall (10d), and the right wall (10e) are illustrated based on the first storage compartment (21).

[0086] For example, the storage room (20) may include a refrigerator that is maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius and used to refrigerate food. For example, the storage room (20) may include a freezer that is maintained at approximately -30 to 0 degrees Celsius and used to freeze food.

[0087] For example, the storage room (20) can be divided into a plurality of areas by partitions (15). Specifically, the storage room (20) can be divided into a first storage room (21) at the top and a third storage room (22, 23) at the bottom by a first partition (17) extending in the horizontal direction. In addition, the lower storage room (22, 23) of the storage room (20) can be divided into a second storage room (22) at the left and a third storage room (23) at the right by a second partition (19) extending in the vertical direction. In this case, for example, the first storage room (21) can be used as a refrigerator, and both the second storage room (22) and the third storage room (23) can be used as freezers, or one of the two can be used as a freezers and the other of the two can be used as a refrigerator.

[0088] The above-described method of dividing the storage room (20) and the purpose of each of the divided storage rooms (21, 22, 23) are only one example, and the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example.

[0089] A shelf (25) for placing food may be provided inside the storage room (20). A storage container (26) for storing food may be provided inside the storage room (20).

[0090] A refrigerator (1) may include a cooling system configured to generate cold air using a cooling cycle and supply the generated cold air to a storage compartment (20). The cooling system may generate cold air using a cooling cycle that compresses, condenses, expands, and evaporates a refrigerant. For example, the cooling system may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, a blower fan, and the like.

[0091] The refrigerator (1) may include a cold air duct (80) provided to guide cold air generated by the cooling system to the storage compartment (20) (see FIGS. 6, 9, 13, 14, 16, and 17). The cold air duct (80) may be provided at the rear of the storage compartment (20). The cold air duct (80) may form a cold air path (81) through which cold air generated by the cooling system flows. The cold air duct (80) may be connected to the storage compartment (20) and may include a cold air discharge port (82) for discharging cold air into the storage compartment (20).

[0092] The door (30) may be provided to open and close the storage compartment (20). The door (30) may be provided to open and close an opening formed on one side of the main body (10). For example, the opening may be formed on the front side of the main body (10). The door (30) may be provided to be rotatable relative to the main body (10).

[0093] The outer surface of the door (30) may form a part of the exterior of the refrigerator (1). When the door (30) is closed, the outer surface of the door (30) may form at least a part of the front exterior of the refrigerator (1). When the door (30) is closed, the inner surface of the door (30) may face the interior of the storage compartment (20). The inner surface of the door (30) referred to herein means one side of the door (30) that faces the storage compartment (20) when the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20). In addition, the outer surface of the door (30) referred to herein means the other side opposite to the inner surface of the door (30) that faces the storage compartment (20) when the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), and means the front of the door (30) that is visible when the refrigerator (1) is viewed from the front.

[0094] A door gasket (33) may be provided on the inner surface of the door (30) to seal the gap between the door (30) and the main body (10) and prevent leakage of cold air from the storage compartment (20). The door gasket (33) may be provided along the perimeter of the inner surface of the door (30). The door gasket (33) may be configured to include an elastic material such as rubber.

[0095] The refrigerator (1) may include a plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D) that open and close each compartmentalized storage compartment (21, 22, 23).

[0096] The first storage compartment (21) can be opened and closed by a pair of upper doors (30A, 30B). The refrigerator (1) may include a first door (30A) that opens and closes a portion of the first storage compartment (21) and a second door (30B) that opens and closes another portion of the first storage compartment (21). The first door (30A) and the second door (30B) may be provided to be rotatable independently of each other with respect to the main body (10).

[0097] The first door (30A) and the second door (30B) may be arranged parallel to each other. Specifically, the first door (30A) and the second door (30B) may be arranged parallel to each other in the horizontal direction (Y direction). For example, the first door (30A) may be arranged to open and close the left side of the first storage compartment (21), and the second door (30B) may be arranged to open and close the right side of the first storage compartment (22).

[0098] One of the pair of upper doors (30A, 30B) (e.g., the first door (30A)) may be provided with a rotation bar (35) that is provided to be rotatable relative to that one door and is provided to cover the gap between the pair of upper doors (30A, 30B) when the first storage compartment (21) is closed.

[0099] The second storage compartment (22) can be opened and closed by the lower left door (30C). The refrigerator (1) may include a third door (30C) provided to open and close the second storage compartment (22). The third door (30C) may be provided to be rotatable with respect to the main body (10). For example, the first door (30A) and the third door (30C) may be arranged parallel to each other in the vertical direction (Z).

[0100] The third storage compartment (23) can be opened and closed by the lower right door (30D). The refrigerator (1) may include a fourth door (30D) provided to open and close the third storage compartment (23). The fourth door (30D) may be provided to be rotatable with respect to the main body (10). For example, the second door (30B) and the fourth door (30D) may be arranged parallel to each other in the vertical direction (Z).

[0101] The third door (30C) and the fourth door (30D) can be arranged parallel to each other in the horizontal direction (Y).

[0102] For example, a handle may be provided for each of the plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D), and a user may open or close each of the doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D) by grasping the handle provided for each of the plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D). In other words, a user may open or close each of the storage compartments (21, 22, 23) by grasping the handle provided for each of the plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D).

[0103] For example, the handle provided on each of the plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D) may include a groove shape that is concavely formed so that it can be gripped.

[0104] For example, a door basket (31) capable of storing food may be provided on the back surface of each of the plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D). For example, a basket support member (32) for supporting the door basket (31) may be provided on the back surface of each of the plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D).

[0105] For example, at least one of the pair of upper doors (30A, 30B) may be provided as a double door including an inner door (40) and an outer door (50). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and for example, at least one of the left lower door (30C) or the right lower door (30D) may be provided as a double door including an inner door and an outer door.

[0106] Meanwhile, in the drawing, the refrigerator (1) is illustrated as including four doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D) for opening and closing three storage compartments (21, 22, 23), but the present disclosure is not limited to what is illustrated in the drawing. The refrigerator may include one storage compartment (20) and one door (30), or one storage compartment (20) and a plurality of doors (30), or a plurality of storage compartments (20) and a single door (30), or a plurality of storage compartments (20) and a plurality of doors (30). The refrigerator may include various combinations of storage compartments (20) and doors (30).

[0107] The refrigerator (1) may include a hinge (60) connecting the main body (10) and the door (30). The door (30) may be rotatably connected to the main body (10) by the hinge (60).

[0108] The refrigerator (1) may include a top table (16). The top table (16) may be coupled to the upper portion of the outer case (13). The top table (16) may be coupled to the upper surface of the outer case (13). The top table (16) may cover various electrical components. The top table (16) may be provided as a component of the main body (10).

[0109] The refrigerator (1) may include a camera assembly (70). The camera assembly (70) may be installed in the main body (10). The camera assembly (70) may be mounted on the main body (10). For example, the camera assembly (70) may be placed on at least one of the upper or lower sides of the storage compartment (20). For example, the camera assembly (70) may be provided between the inner case (11) and the outer case (13). A detailed description of the camera assembly (70) will be described later.

[0110] The configuration of the refrigerator (1) described above with reference to FIG. 1 is merely an example for explaining a refrigerator according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A refrigerator according to the concept of the present disclosure may be provided to include various configurations for performing the function of supplying cold air to a storage room for storing food.

[0111] The type of refrigerator to which the refrigerator according to the invention of the present disclosure is applied is not limited to the type of refrigerator (1) illustrated in the drawing, and the refrigerator according to the invention of the present disclosure may include various types of refrigerators such as a side-by-side type, a French door type, a BMF (Bottom Mounted Freezer) type, a TMF (Top Mounted Freezer) type, or a 1-door type.

[0112] In addition, the above description is made as an example of the present disclosure on the premise that the refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a direct-cooling refrigerator, but the idea of ​​the present disclosure is not limited thereto and can also be applied to a direct-cooling refrigerator.

[0113] However, for convenience of explanation, the refrigerator according to the concept of the present disclosure will be described below based on the refrigerator (1) illustrated in the drawing.

[0114] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a camera assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 illustrates the camera assembly illustrated in FIG. 2 from another direction. FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the camera assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 illustrates the camera assembly illustrated in FIG. 4 from another direction.

[0115] The camera assembly (1) may include a camera (100). The camera (100) may be configured to photograph the exterior and interior of the storage compartment (20). The camera (100) may be configured to acquire an image of an exterior area of ​​the storage compartment (20) and / or an image of an interior area. The camera (100) may photograph at least one of a user or food located within a preset distance from the storage compartment (20). The camera (100) may photograph food placed inside the storage compartment (20).

[0116] The camera (100) may be arranged to be movable (see solid arrows in FIG. 3). For example, the camera (100) may be movable approximately in the forward-backward direction (X direction). The camera (100) may be arranged to be rotatable (see dashed arrows in FIG. 3). For example, the camera (100) may be rotatable approximately around the horizontal direction (Y direction) axis. As will be described later, the camera (100) may be arranged to be movable and rotatable between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2).

[0117] The camera (100) can be placed on at least one of the upper or lower sides of the storage room (20). The camera (100) can be mounted on the main body (10). Specifically, the camera (100) can be mounted on the main body (10) by a camera holder (200), a moving frame (300), and a fixed frame (400) which will be described later.

[0118] The camera (100) may include a lens (110), a substrate (120), and a connector (130). The lens (110) may collect or diverge light from an object to form an optical image (focus). The substrate (120) may include an image sensor configured to convert an image projected through the lens (110) into a digital signal. For example, the image sensor may be a charge-coupled device (CCD) sensor or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. The substrate (120) may include an infrared filter (IR filter) configured to block light in the infrared region other than visible light. The connector (130) may be electrically connected to a power source and / or other components. For example, the connector (130) may be electrically connected to a control unit (900, see FIG. 21) of the refrigerator (100).

[0119] The camera assembly (70) may include a fixed frame (400). The fixed frame (400) may be mounted on the main body (10). The fixed frame (400) may be fixed to the main body (10). For example, the fixed frame (400) may be fixed to the inner case (11) and / or the outer case (13) of the main body (10).

[0120] A fixed frame (400) may be provided to accommodate a camera (100). The fixed frame (400) may be provided to accommodate a movable frame (300) to be described later. The fixed frame (400) may be provided to accommodate a camera holder (200) to be described later. An accommodation space (410) may be formed inside the fixed frame (400). The fixed frame (400) may have a roughly box-like shape with an open front.

[0121] The fixed frame (400) may include a frame hole (420). The frame hole (420) may be connected to the receiving space (410).

[0122] For example, the fixed frame (400) may include a first frame hole (420a) formed through the right side of the fixed frame (400) and a second frame hole (420b) formed through the left side of the fixed frame (400). The first frame hole (420a) and the second frame hole (420b) may be provided as a pair. However, unlike as shown in the drawing, the frame hole (420) may be provided as one. There is no limitation on the number of frame holes (420).

[0123] The fixed frame (400) may include a first opening (430). The first opening (430) may be connected to the receiving space (410). The first opening (430) may be provided to face the storage compartment (20). The first opening (430) may be provided to face the inside of the storage compartment (20). The first opening (430) may be formed to penetrate a surface of the fixed frame (400) facing the storage compartment (20). For example, when the camera assembly (70) is disposed on the upper side of the storage compartment (20), the first opening (430) may be formed to penetrate a lower surface of the fixed frame (400). For example, when the camera assembly (70) is disposed on the lower side of the storage compartment (20), the first opening (430) may be formed to penetrate an upper surface of the fixed frame (400).

[0124] The fixed frame (400) may include a frame fixing member (440). The frame fixing member (440) may be fixed to the main body (10). For example, the frame fixing member (440) may include a fastening hole, and a screw may pass through the fastening hole of the frame fixing member (440) and be fixed to the main body (10). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and the fixed frame (400) may be fixed to the main body (10) by various known coupling methods.

[0125] The camera assembly (70) may include a movable frame (300). The movable frame (300) may be provided to be movable relative to the fixed frame (400). The movable frame (300) may be provided to be withdrawable from the fixed frame (400) and retractable into the fixed frame (400). At least a portion of the movable frame (300) may protrude from the fixed frame (400). At least a portion of the movable frame (300) may be accommodated within the fixed frame (400). For example, the movable frame (300) may be movable approximately along the forward-backward direction (X direction).

[0126] The moving frame (300) may be provided so as to be in contact with the door (30). The moving frame (300) may be provided so as to be in contact with the door (30) when the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20). When the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the moving frame (300) may not be in contact with the door (30).

[0127] The movable frame (300) may be provided to accommodate the camera (100). The movable frame (300) may be provided to accommodate the camera holder (200). The movable frame (300) may be provided to move relative to the fixed frame (400) while accommodating the camera (100) and the camera holder (200).

[0128] For example, the moving frame (300) may include a first frame portion (310) and a second frame portion (320). The first frame portion (310) and the second frame portion (320) may be detachably coupled to each other. As the first frame portion (310) and the second frame portion (320) are coupled, the moving frame (300) may form a space for accommodating the camera (100) and / or the camera holder (200). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and the first frame portion (310) and the second frame portion (320) may be provided as an integral part. The moving frame (300) may be provided as a single configuration.

[0129] The moving frame (300) may include a second opening (330). The second opening (330) may be provided to face the storage compartment (20). The second opening (330) may be provided to face the inside of the storage compartment (20). The second opening (330) may be formed to penetrate a surface of the moving frame (300) facing the storage compartment (20). For example, when the camera assembly (70) is disposed on the upper side of the storage compartment (20), the second opening (330) may be formed to penetrate a lower surface of the moving frame (300). For example, when the camera assembly (70) is disposed on the lower side of the storage compartment (20), the second opening (330) may be formed to penetrate an upper surface of the moving frame (300). The second opening (330) may be provided to correspond to the first opening (430). At least a portion of the second opening (330) may be provided to overlap at least a portion of the first opening (430). For example, the second opening (330) may be formed in the first frame portion (310).

[0130] The lens (110) of the camera (100) can be exposed to the outside of the moving frame (300) through the second opening (330). The second opening (330) can extend along the movement direction of the lens (110) of the camera (100). For example, the width of the second opening (330) can be equal to or greater than the width of the lens (110) of the camera (100). Since the moving frame (300) has the second opening (330), the camera (100) can be unobstructed by the moving frame (300) even while moving and / or rotating.

[0131] The moving frame (300) may include a guide rail (340). The guide rail (340) may be provided to guide a guide protrusion (500) to be described later. For example, the guide rail (340) may be formed on the first frame portion (310).

[0132] For example, the moving frame (300) may include a first guide rail (340a) formed through the right side of the moving frame (300) and a second guide rail (340b) formed through the left side of the moving frame (300). The first guide rail (340a) and the second guide rail (340b) may be provided as a pair. The first guide rail (340a) may correspond to the first frame hole (420a). The second guide rail (340b) may correspond to the second frame hole (420b). However, unlike what is shown in the drawing, the guide rail (340) may be provided as one. There is no limitation on the number of guide rails (340).

[0133] The guide rail (340) may have a curved shape. The guide rail (340) may have a predetermined radius of curvature. When the movable frame (300) moves relative to the fixed frame (400), the guide protrusion (500) may be arranged to rotate within a predetermined range due to the shape of the above-described guide rail (340).

[0134] The guide rail (340) may include a first end (341) and a second end (342). The second end (342) may be positioned behind the first end (341). The guide protrusion (500) may be provided on the inside of the guide rail (340), and the photographing area of ​​the camera (100) may vary depending on whether the guide protrusion (500) is provided on the first end (341) or the second end (342).

[0135] The moving frame (300) may include a spring coupling portion (350) to which a spring (600) to be described later is coupled. For example, the spring coupling portion (350) may be formed on the second frame portion (320). For example, at least a portion of the spring (600) may be arranged to surround the spring coupling portion (350).

[0136] The movable frame (300) may include a curved portion (300a) whose central portion protrudes toward the outside of the storage compartment (20). The curved portion (300a) may be provided to be in contact with the door (30). When the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the curved portion (300a) may be in contact with the inner surface of the door (30). For example, the curved portion (300a) may be formed on the first frame portion (310).

[0137] The camera assembly (70) may include a camera holder (200). The camera holder (200) may be provided to support the camera (100) within a movable frame (300). The camera holder (200) may be provided to hold the camera (100) within the movable frame (300). As the camera holder (200) moves and / or rotates by the movable frame (300), the camera (100) may also move and / or rotate together with the camera holder (200).

[0138] For example, the camera holder (200) may include a first holder portion (210) and a second holder portion (220). The first holder portion (210) and the second holder portion (220) may be detachably coupled to each other. The first holder portion (210) and the second holder portion (220) may include a first fastening hole (211) and a second fastening hole (221), respectively, and the fastening member (250) may be fixed to the first fastening hole (211) and the second fastening hole (221). In addition, the first holder portion (210) and the second holder portion (220) may be coupled to each other by various known coupling methods. As the first holder portion (210) and the second holder portion (220) are coupled, the camera holder (200) may form a space for accommodating at least a portion of the camera (100). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and the first holder part (210) and the second holder part (220) may be provided as a single unit. The camera holder (200) may be provided as a single configuration.

[0139] The camera holder (200) may include a lens hole (212). The lens (110) of the camera (100) may protrude from the camera holder (200) through the lens hole (212). The lens (110) of the camera (100) may be exposed to the outside of the camera holder (200) through the lens hole (212). For example, the lens hole (212) may be formed in the first holder portion (210).

[0140] The camera holder (200) may include a protrusion coupling portion (230). A guide protrusion (500) may be detachably coupled to the protrusion coupling portion (230). At least a portion of the guide protrusion (500) may pass through the second frame hole (420) and the guide rail (340) and be rotatably fixed to the protrusion coupling portion (230).

[0141] For example, the camera holder (200) may include a first protrusion coupling portion (230a) and a second protrusion coupling portion (230b). The first protrusion coupling portion (230a) may correspond to the first guide rail (340a). The first protrusion coupling portion (230a) may correspond to the first frame hole (420a). The second protrusion coupling portion (230b) may correspond to the second guide rail (340b). The second protrusion coupling portion (230b) may correspond to the second frame hole (420b). The first protrusion coupling portion (230a) and the second protrusion coupling portion (230b) may be provided as a pair. However, unlike as illustrated in the drawing, the protrusion coupling portion (230) may be provided as a single unit. There is no limitation on the number of protrusion coupling portions (230).

[0142] The camera assembly (70) may include a guide protrusion (500). The guide protrusion (500) is insertable into a frame hole (420) of a fixed frame (400). A portion of the guide protrusion (500) may pass through the frame hole (420). The guide protrusion (500) may be coupled to a camera holder (200) through the frame hole (420). The guide protrusion (500) may be insertable into a guide rail (340) of a movable frame (300). A portion of the guide protrusion (500) may pass through the guide rail (340). The guide protrusion (500) may be coupled to the camera holder (200) through the guide rail (340). The guide protrusion (500) may be fixed to a protrusion coupling portion (230) of the camera holder (200).

[0143] The guide protrusion (500) may be provided on the inside of the guide rail (340) of the moving frame (300). As the moving frame (300) moves, the guide protrusion (500) may be provided to rotate by the guide rail (340). As the moving frame (300) moves, the guide protrusion (500) may rotate the camera (100). As the moving frame (300) moves, the guide protrusion (500) may rotate the camera holder (200) coupled to the guide protrusion (500). As the moving frame (300) moves, the guide protrusion (500) may rotate the camera (100) and the camera holder (200). The camera (100) may be supported by the camera holder (200) and may be provided to rotate together with the camera holder (200).

[0144] For example, the camera assembly (70) may include a first guide protrusion (500a) and a second guide protrusion (500b). The first guide protrusion (500a) may correspond to the first guide rail (340a). The first guide protrusion (500a) may correspond to the first frame hole (420a). The first guide protrusion (500a) may be coupled to the first protrusion coupling portion (230a). The second guide protrusion (500b) may correspond to the second guide rail (340b). The second guide protrusion (500b) may correspond to the second frame hole (420b). The second guide protrusion (500b) may be coupled to the second protrusion coupling portion (230b). However, unlike as illustrated in the drawing, the camera assembly (70) may include one guide protrusion (500). There is no limit to the number of guide protrusions (500).

[0145] The camera assembly (70) may include a spring (600). The spring (600) may be configured to elastically bias the movable frame (300) relative to the fixed frame (400). The spring (600) may be configured to move the movable frame (300) relative to the fixed frame (400).

[0146] The spring (600) may have an elastic restoring force to change the position of the camera (100). For example, the spring (600) may have an elastic restoring force to change the camera (100) from a second position (P2, see FIGS. 9 to 11) to a first position (P1, see FIGS. 6 to 8). By the elastic restoring force of the spring (600), the movable frame (300) may be pulled out from the fixed frame (400). By the elastic restoring force of the spring (600), the movable frame (300) may protrude from the fixed frame (400). For example, the spring (600) may move the movable frame (300) forward. A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0147] The spring (600) may be placed in a space formed between the movable frame (300) and the fixed frame (400). For example, the spring (600) may be placed between the rear surface of the movable frame (300) and the rear surface of the fixed frame (400). For example, one end of the spring (600) may be coupled to the spring coupling portion (350) of the movable frame (300), and the other end of the spring (600) may be in contact with the inner side of the rear surface of the fixed frame (400).

[0148] FIG. 6 illustrates a state in which a storage compartment of a refrigerator is opened according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a cross-section of the camera assembly illustrated in FIG. 6. FIG. 8 schematically illustrates the interior of the camera assembly illustrated in FIG. 6. FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a state in which a storage compartment of a refrigerator is closed according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 schematically illustrates a cross-section of the camera assembly illustrated in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 schematically illustrates the interior of the camera assembly illustrated in FIG. 9.

[0149] Any descriptions that overlap with those of the aforementioned embodiments may be omitted. Components substantially identical to those described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0150] For reference, the camera assembly (70) arranged on the upper side of the storage room (20) may be illustrated as a camera assembly (70a) (see FIGS. 6 to 11 and FIGS. 15 to 18), and the camera assembly (70) arranged on the lower side of the storage room (20) may be illustrated as a camera assembly (70b) (see FIGS. 12 to 17). Hereinafter, when describing the arrangement of the camera assemblies, they may be described separately as the camera assembly (70a) and the camera assembly (70b). However, the camera assembly (70a) and the camera assembly (70b) may have substantially the same configuration except for the different arrangements. Accordingly, except for the description of the arrangement of the camera assemblies, they may be described collectively as the camera assembly (70). That is, the description of the camera assembly (70) may be applied to both the camera assembly (70a) and the camera assembly (70b).

[0151] The camera assembly (70) may be arranged to photograph the exterior and interior of the storage room (20). In the drawing, for convenience of explanation, the camera assembly (70) for photographing the exterior and interior of the first storage room (21) is illustrated, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the camera assembly (70) may also be arranged to photograph the exterior and interior of the second storage room (22) (or the third storage room (23)). Accordingly, the description of the storage room (20) described below can of course be applied to each of the storage rooms (21, 22, 23).

[0152] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 11, the refrigerator (1) may include a camera assembly (70a) mountable on the upper wall (10a) of the main body (10). The camera (100) may be positioned on the upper side of the storage compartment (20). The lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to face downward. The camera (100) may be positioned above the upper wall (10a). However, unlike what is shown in the drawings, the camera assembly (70a) may also be positioned in the upper region inside the storage compartment (20).

[0153] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 11, the camera (100) can be configured to be switchable between a first position (P1, see FIGS. 6 to 8) and a second position (P2, see FIGS. 9 to 11).

[0154] The camera (100) can be accommodated in a movable frame (300). The camera (100) can be linked to the movable frame (300). Specifically, as the movable frame (300) moves relative to the fixed frame (400), the camera holder (200) provided inside the movable frame (300) and the camera (100) supported by the camera holder (200) can move and rotate. Accordingly, the camera (100) can be switched between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2). However, unlike as illustrated in the drawing, the camera (100) can be directly connected to the movable frame (300) without the camera holder (200) and moved and rotated by the movable frame (300).

[0155] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, while the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) may be provided at the first position (P1). While the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the camera assembly (70) may not be subjected to the pressing force of the door (30). While the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the moving frame (300) may not be pressed by the door (30). While the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the moving frame (300) may not come into contact with the door (30).

[0156] When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the movable frame (300) can be pulled out from the fixed frame (400). The movable frame (300) can be pulled out from the fixed frame (400) by the elastic restoring force of the spring (600). Here, the fact that the movable frame (300) is pulled out from the fixed frame (400) may include that at least a portion of the movable frame (300) protrudes as much as possible from the fixed frame (400). When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the spring (600) may be in a state where it is maximally extended. The spring (600) may have a maximum length along the movement direction of the movable frame (300).

[0157] When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the guide protrusion (500) can be placed at the first end (341) of the guide rail (340). While the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the first end (341) of the guide rail (340) can be provided on the inside of the fixed frame (400). While the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the second end (342) of the guide rail (340) can be provided on the outside of the fixed frame (400). A part of the guide rail (340) can be exposed to the outside of the fixed frame (400).

[0158] When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the camera (100) can protrude forward (in the +X direction) of the storage room (20). When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the camera (100) can protrude further than the storage room (20). When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the camera (100) can protrude further forward than the storage room (20).

[0159] When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to face the outside of the storage room (20). When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to face the front of the storage room (20). When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), at least a part of the lens (110) of the camera (100) may be exposed to the outside of the main body (10). The lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to be inclined with respect to the moving direction of the moving frame (300).

[0160] While the door (30) opens the storage room (20), the camera (100) may be provided at a first position (P1) to photograph the outside of the storage room (20). When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the camera (100) may be provided to photograph food being put into the storage room (20). When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the camera (100) may be provided to obtain an image of food entering the storage room (20). In addition, when the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the camera (100) may be provided to photograph food being taken out from the storage room (20). When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the camera (100) may be provided to obtain an image of food coming out of the storage room (20). The camera (100) can photograph the time of entry and exit of food.

[0161] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 11, while the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) may be provided at the second position (P2). While the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the camera assembly (70) may receive the pressing force of the door (30). While the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the moving frame (300) may be pressed by the door (30). While the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the moving frame (300) may be provided to come into contact with the door (30).

[0162] When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the movable frame (300) can be inserted into the fixed frame (400). The movable frame (300) can be inserted into the fixed frame (400) by the pressing force of the door (30). Here, the movable frame (300) being inserted into the fixed frame (400) may include that at least a portion of the movable frame (300) is inserted into the fixed frame (400) to the maximum extent. When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the spring (600) can be compressed by the movable frame (300). For example, the spring (600) can be compressed between the rear surface of the movable frame (300) and the rear surface of the fixed frame (400). The spring (600) can have a minimum length along the movement direction of the movable frame (300).

[0163] When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the guide protrusion (500) can be placed at the second end (342) of the guide rail (340). While the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the first end (341) of the guide rail (340) can be provided inside the fixed frame (400). While the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the second end (342) of the guide rail (340) can be provided inside the fixed frame (400). The guide rail (340) can be provided inside the fixed frame (400). The guide rail (340) can be placed in the receiving space (410).

[0164] When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the camera (100) can be inserted into the body (10) from the first position (P1). The camera (100) can be positioned further back while at the second position (P2) than when at the first position (P1).

[0165] When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to face the inside of the storage room (20). When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to face the rear of the inside of the storage room (20). The lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to be inclined with respect to the movement direction of the moving frame (300).

[0166] While the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) may be arranged to be positioned at a second position (P2) to photograph the interior of the storage compartment (20). When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the camera (100) may be arranged to photograph food stored in the storage compartment (20). When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the camera (100) may be arranged to photograph food stored in the storage compartment (20). When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the camera (100) may be arranged to obtain an image of food placed in the storage compartment (20).

[0167] The main body (10) may include a through-hole (18a) corresponding to the lens (110) of the camera (100) when the camera (100) is at the second position (P2). The through-hole (18a) may be in communication with the storage compartment (20). For example, the through-hole (18a) may be formed by cutting a portion of the upper wall (10a). The through-hole (18a) may overlap the first opening (430). The through-hole (18a) may overlap the second opening (330). For example, a transparent member (14) may be provided in the through-hole (18a). For example, the transparent member (14) may include glass. The camera (100) may photograph the inside of the storage compartment (20) through the through-hole (18a) (and / or the transparent member (14)).

[0168] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 11, as the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) can be switched from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2). As the camera (100) moves and rotates due to the pressing force of the door (30), the camera can be switched from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2).

[0169] For example, as the door (30) presses the movable frame (300), the movable frame (300) can move rearward. The movable frame (300) can compress the spring (600) while moving rearward. As the movable frame (300) moves rearward, the guide rail (340), which is a component of the movable frame (300), can also move rearward. The guide protrusion (500) can be arranged to correspond to the second end (342) of the guide rail (340). As an example, the camera (100) can rotate counterclockwise while moving rearward. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example. It goes without saying that the direction of movement and / or the direction of rotation of the camera (100) can vary depending on the configuration, arrangement, etc. of the camera assembly (70).

[0170] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 11, as the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) can be switched from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1). As the pressing force of the door (30) is removed, the camera (100) can be switched from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1). As the pressing force of the door (30) is removed, the camera (100) can be switched from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1) by the elastic restoring force of the spring (600). As long as the door (30) does not press the camera assembly (70), the spring (600) can maintain the camera (100) in the first position (P1).

[0171] For example, since the door (30) does not press the moving frame (300), the spring (600) can be compressed and then expanded to move the moving frame (300) forward. As the moving frame (300) moves forward, the guide rail (340), which is a component of the moving frame (300), can also move forward. The guide protrusion (500) can be arranged to correspond to the first end (341) of the guide rail (340). As an example, the camera (100) can rotate clockwise while moving forward. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example. It goes without saying that the moving direction and / or rotation direction of the camera (100) can vary depending on the configuration, arrangement, etc. of the camera assembly (70).

[0172] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment. Fig. 13 illustrates the storage compartment of the refrigerator illustrated in Fig. 12 in an open state. Fig. 14 illustrates the storage compartment of the refrigerator illustrated in Fig. 12 in a closed state.

[0173] Any descriptions that overlap with those of the aforementioned embodiments may be omitted. Components substantially identical to those described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0174] The camera assembly (70b) is substantially identical to the camera assembly (70a) except for a different arrangement. The description of the camera (100) of the camera assembly (70a) described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 11 can, of course, be equally applied to the camera (100) of the camera assembly (70b).

[0175] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 14, the refrigerator (1) may include a camera assembly (70b) that can be mounted on the lower wall (10b) of the main body (10). The camera (100) may be positioned on the lower side of the storage compartment (20). The lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to face upward. For example, the camera (100) may be positioned below the lower wall (10b). However, unlike what is shown in the drawings, the camera assembly (70b) may also be positioned in the lower region inside the storage compartment (20).

[0176] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the camera (100) of the camera assembly (70b) may be configured to be switchable between a first position (P1, see FIG. 13) and a second position (P2, see FIG. 14).

[0177] While the door (30) opens the storage room (20), the camera (100) may be installed at the first position (P1). While the door (30) opens the storage room (20), the camera (100) may be installed at the first position (P1) to photograph the exterior of the storage room (20). While the door (30) opens the storage room (20), the camera (100) may be installed at the first position (P1) to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room (20).

[0178] While the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) may be installed at a second position (P2). While the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) may be installed at a second position (P2) to photograph the interior of the storage compartment (20). While the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) may be installed at a second position (P2) to photograph food stored in the storage compartment (20).

[0179] The main body (10) may include a through-hole (18b) corresponding to the lens (110) of the camera (100) when the camera (100) is at the second position (P2). The through-hole (18b) may be in communication with the storage compartment (20). For example, the through-hole (18b) may be formed by cutting a portion of the lower wall (10b). The through-hole (18b) may overlap with the first opening (430). The through-hole (18b) may overlap with the second opening (330). Although not clearly shown in the drawing, a transparent member (not shown) may be provided in the through-hole (18b). For example, the transparent member may include glass. The camera (100) may photograph the inside of the storage compartment (20) through the through-hole (18b).

[0180] As the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) can be switched from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2). For example, the camera (100) of the camera assembly (70b) can rotate clockwise while moving rearward.

[0181] As the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) can be switched from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1). For example, the camera (100) of the camera assembly (70b) can rotate counterclockwise while moving forward.

[0182] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment. Fig. 16 illustrates the storage compartment of the refrigerator illustrated in Fig. 15 in an open state. Fig. 17 illustrates the storage compartment of the refrigerator illustrated in Fig. 15 in a closed state.

[0183] For convenience of explanation, the camera assembly (70) disposed on the upper side of the storage room (20) may be referred to as a first camera assembly (70a), and the camera assembly (70) disposed on the lower side of the storage room (20) may be referred to as a second camera assembly (70b). For convenience of explanation, the camera (100) of the camera assembly (70a) may be referred to as a first camera (100a), and the camera (100) of the camera assembly (70b) may be referred to as a second camera (100b).

[0184] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 17, the refrigerator (1) may include a first camera assembly (70a) and a second camera assembly (70b). The first camera assembly (70a) may be mounted on the upper wall (10a) of the main body (10). The second camera assembly (70b) may be mounted on the lower wall (10b) of the main body (10). The lens (110) of the first camera (100a) may be provided to face downward. The lens (110) of the second camera (100b) may be provided to face upward.

[0185] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, each of the first camera (100a) and the second camera (100b) can be configured to be switchable between a first position (P1, see FIG. 16) and a second position (P2, see FIG. 17).

[0186] While the door (30) opens the storage room (20), the first camera (100a) is installed at the first position (P1) to photograph the exterior of the storage room (20) from above, and the second camera assembly (70a) is installed at the first position (P1) to photograph the exterior of the storage room (20) from below. The first camera (100a) and the second camera (100b) may be installed to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room (20). The first camera (100a) and the second camera (100b) may obtain images of food being brought in or taken out.

[0187] While the door (30) closes the storage room (20), the first camera (100a) is installed at the first position (P1) to photograph the interior of the storage room (20) from above, and the second camera assembly (70a) is installed at the first position (P1) to photograph the interior of the storage room (20) from below. The first camera (100a) and the second camera (100b) may be installed to photograph food stored in the storage room (20). The first camera (100a) and the second camera (100b) may obtain images of food placed in the storage room (20).

[0188] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0189] The refrigerator (1) may include a camera assembly (70) that can be mounted on the upper wall (10a) or the lower wall (10b) of the main body (10). The camera (100) of the camera assembly (70) may be placed on at least one of the upper or lower sides of the storage compartment (20).

[0190] The refrigerator (1) may include a reflective member (90). The reflective member (90) may be provided on a wall of the main body (10) where the camera assembly (70) is not installed. For example, the reflective member (90) may be provided on the other of the upper or lower sides of the storage compartment (20) so as to face the camera (100). The reflective member (90) may illuminate the inside of the storage compartment (20) by using reflection of light. The reflective member (90) may be provided as a part of the inner case (11). For example, the reflective member (90) may be provided as one surface of the inner case (11). The reflective member (90) may be referred to as a mirror (90).

[0191] The camera (100) may be arranged to photograph food reflected by the reflective member (90). Thus, the camera (100) may be arranged to identify food reflected by the reflective member (90).

[0192] In FIG. 18, the refrigerator (1) is illustrated as including a camera assembly (70a) disposed on an upper wall (10a) of the main body (10) and a reflective member (90) disposed on the lower side of the storage compartment (20) to face the camera assembly (70a), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the refrigerator (1) may include a camera assembly (70b) disposed on a lower wall (10b) of the main body (10) and a reflective member (90) disposed on the upper side of the storage compartment (20). For example, the refrigerator (1) may include at least one camera assembly (70a and / or 70b) disposed on an upper wall (10a) and / or a lower wall (10b) of the main body (10), and a reflective member (90) disposed on a left wall and / or a right wall of the main body (10).

[0193] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a camera assembly according to one embodiment. Fig. 20 illustrates the camera assembly according to one embodiment from another direction.

[0194] When describing the camera assembly (70c) with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20, components that are substantially the same as the aforementioned configuration are assigned the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted. The camera assembly (70c) may include a motor (700) instead of the moving frame (300). Otherwise, the camera assembly (70c) may be substantially the same as the aforementioned camera assembly (70).

[0195] The camera assembly (70c) may include a fixed frame (400). The fixed frame (400) may include a receiving space (410) for receiving the camera (100) and a receiving space (450) for receiving the motor (700).

[0196] The camera assembly (70c) may include a camera (100). The camera (100) may be placed in the receiving space (410) of the fixed frame (400). The lens (110) of the camera (100) may be exposed to the outside of the fixed frame (400). The camera (100) may rotate to capture the outside of the storage compartment (20) or the inside of the storage compartment (20) (see the dashed arrow in FIG. 20). The lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to face the outside of the storage compartment (20) or the inside of the storage compartment (20).

[0197] The camera assembly (70c) may include a camera holder (200). The camera holder (200) may be configured to support the camera (100) within a fixed frame (400). The camera holder (200) may be coupled to a motor (700). The camera holder (200) may be configured to rotate within the fixed frame (400). The camera (100) may be configured to rotate together with the camera holder (200).

[0198] The camera assembly (70c) may include a motor (700). The motor (700) may rotate the camera (100). The motor (700) may rotate a camera holder (200) that supports the camera (100). As the camera (100) rotates by the motor (700), the shooting area and / or shooting target of the camera (100) may change. For example, the motor (700) may be configured to switch the camera (100) between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2).

[0199] Fig. 21 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0200] Referring to FIG. 21, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment may include a first sensor (831), a second sensor (832), a user interface (810), a communication unit (820), a camera (100), and / or a control unit (900).

[0201] The first sensor (831) can detect the state of the door (30). The first sensor (831) can detect the position of the door (30). The first sensor (831) can transmit detection information corresponding to the state of the door (30) to the control unit (900).

[0202] For example, the control unit (900) can determine whether the storage room (20) is open or closed based on information obtained by the first sensor (831).

[0203] The second sensor (832) can detect at least one of a user or food located within a preset distance from the storage compartment (20). The second sensor (832) can detect a user and / or food located in the front area of ​​the storage compartment (20). The front area of ​​the storage compartment (20) may vary depending on the field of view of the camera (100). The second sensor (832) may be provided as a component of the camera (100) or may be provided as a component separate from the camera (100).

[0204] For example, the control unit (900) may determine whether to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room (20) based on information acquired by the second sensor (832). For example, the control unit (900) may determine whether to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room (20) based on information acquired by the second sensor (832). The processor (910) may determine whether to photograph food.

[0205] For example, the control unit (900) may control the camera (100) to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room (20) based on the detection of at least one of a user or food during a preset time by the second sensor (832) after the door (30) opens the storage room (20). Here, the control unit (900) may determine whether the door (30) is open to the storage room (20) based on information acquired through the first sensor (831).

[0206] For example, the control unit (900) can store images acquired from the camera (100). The control unit (900) can control the user interface (810) to provide the user with information about the food and / or a notification based on information about the food based on the stored images.

[0207] The user interface (810) may include at least one output interface (812). The user interface (810) may include at least one input interface (811).

[0208] At least one output interface (812) can transmit various information related to the operation of the refrigerator (1) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0209] For example, at least one output interface (812) can transmit information related to the settings of the refrigerator (1) and the operating time of the refrigerator (1) to the user. Information related to the operation of the refrigerator (1) can be output through a display, an indicator, and / or a voice. For example, at least one output interface (812) can include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0210] If the display includes a touch screen display, the touch screen display may be an example of an output interface (812) and an input interface (811).

[0211] In one embodiment, at least one output interface (812) can output sensory information (e.g., visual information, auditory information, etc.) related to the control of the refrigerator (1).

[0212] At least one input interface (811) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0213] At least one input interface (811) may include a power button for turning on the refrigerator (1).

[0214] Each button may include a visual indicator (e.g., text, an icon, etc.) that indicates its function.

[0215] At least one input interface (811) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0216] In the present disclosure, 'button' may be replaced with a UI element (User Interface Element), a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0217] The refrigerator (1) can process user input received through the user interface (810) and output information related to the refrigerator (1) through the user interface (810).

[0218] The communication unit (820) can communicate with external devices (e.g., servers, user devices, home appliances) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0219] The communication unit (820) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. To this end, the communication unit (820) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication unit (820) can include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, a corresponding communication module can communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0220] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0221] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication interface transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0222] In one embodiment, the communication unit (820) can communicate with external devices via a surrounding access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the refrigerator (1) is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The refrigerator (1) can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0223] The control unit (900) can control the overall operation of the refrigerator (1).

[0224] The control unit (900) may include at least one processor (910) that controls the operation of the refrigerator (1) and at least one memory (920) that stores a program and data for controlling the operation of the refrigerator (1).

[0225] At least one processor (910) controls the overall operation of the refrigerator (1). Specifically, at least one processor (910) is connected to each component of the refrigerator (1) and can control the overall operation of the refrigerator (1). For example, at least one processor (910) is electrically connected to a memory (920) and can control the overall operation of the refrigerator (1). The processor (910) may be composed of one or more processors.

[0226] At least one processor (910) can perform operations of the refrigerator (1) according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction stored in the memory (920).

[0227] At least one memory (920) can store data required for various embodiments. The memory (920) may be implemented as a memory embedded in the refrigerator (1) or as a memory detachable from the refrigerator (1) depending on the purpose of data storage. For example, data for operating the refrigerator (1) may be stored in a memory embedded in the refrigerator (1), and data for expanding the functions of the refrigerator (1) may be stored in a memory detachable from the refrigerator (1). Meanwhile, in the case of memory embedded in the refrigerator (1), it may be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (dynamic RAM), SRAM (static RAM), or SDRAM (synchronous dynamic RAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., OTPROM (one time programmable ROM), PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable and programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable ROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD)). In addition, in the case of memory that can be attached or detached to the refrigerator (1), it may be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., CF (compact flash), SD (secure digital), Micro-SD (micro secure digital), Mini-SD (mini secure digital), xD (extreme digital), MMC (multi-media card)), external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., USB memory), etc.

[0228] At least one processor (910) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), an MIC (Many Integrated Core), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator. The at least one processor (910) may control one or any combination of other components of the refrigerator (1), and may perform operations related to communication or data processing. The at least one processor (910) may execute at least one program or instruction stored in the memory (920). For example, the at least one processor (910) may perform a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure by executing at least one instruction stored in the memory (920).

[0229] The control unit (900) can be electrically connected to the camera (100). The control unit (900) can control the operation of the camera (100). The control unit (900) can analyze images acquired by the camera (100). The processor (910) can control the camera (100). The processor (910) can control the camera (100) to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room (20).

[0230] The control unit (900) can identify food being fed into the storage room (20), food being taken out of the storage room (20), and / or food being stored in the storage room (20) through images acquired by the camera (100). For example, the control unit (900) can acquire information about the food through the camera (100). For example, the information about the food can include at least one of the following: type of food, price, storage date and time, expiration date, location within the storage room (20).

[0231] Fig. 22 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0232] The symbols attached to each step are used to identify each step and do not indicate the order of the steps, and the steps may be performed in a different order than stated unless the context clearly indicates a specific order.

[0233] Referring to Fig. 22, the door (30) can open the storage room (20) (1100).

[0234] For example, the control unit (900) can determine whether the door (30) has opened the storage compartment (20) based on a detection signal received from the first sensor (831).

[0235] In response to the door (30) opening the storage compartment (20) (1100), the camera (100) can be moved and rotated to be positioned at a first position (P1) (1200). For example, the moving frame (300) can be moved forward by the elastic restoring force of the spring (600). For example, the camera (100) can be moved forward and rotated within a predetermined range by being linked to the moving frame (300). The lens (110) of the camera (100) can be arranged to face the outside of the storage compartment (20).

[0236] After the door (30) opens the storage room (20), the control unit (900) can determine whether to photograph food being fed into the storage room (20) (1300). The present disclosure is not limited to what is shown in the drawing, and after the door (30) opens the storage room (20), the control unit (900) can determine whether to photograph food being taken out of the storage room (20).

[0237] For example, the control unit (900) can determine whether to photograph food upon entry or exit based on a detection signal received from the second sensor (832).

[0238] For example, the second sensor (832) can detect that a user and / or food stays for a certain period of time after the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), and transmit a corresponding detection signal to the control unit (900). For example, the second sensor (832) can transmit information about the time (hereinafter referred to as “detection time”) that the user and / or food stays in the front area of ​​the storage compartment (20) after the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20) to the control unit (900). For example, the control unit (900) can compare a preset time with the detection time received from the second sensor (832) to determine whether to take a picture.

[0239] If the control unit (900) determines to photograph the time when food is put in (example of 1300), the control unit (900) can control the camera (100) to photograph the food being put into the storage room (20) (1400). The present disclosure is not limited to what is shown in the drawing, and if the control unit (900) determines to photograph the time when food is taken out, the control unit (900) can control the camera (100) to photograph the food being taken out from the storage room (20) (1400). The camera (100) is installed at the first position (P1) and can photograph the food being put into or taken out from the storage room (20).

[0240] For example, the control unit (900) can control the camera (100) to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room (20) when the detection time acquired by the second sensor (832) is longer than a preset time.

[0241] If the control unit (900) determines not to photograph the time of food input (No in 1300), the camera (100) may not photograph the food input into the storage room (20). The present disclosure is not limited to what is shown in the drawing, and if the control unit (900) determines not to photograph the time of food output (No in 1300), the camera (100) may not photograph the food output from the storage room (20).

[0242] For example, the control unit (900) can control the camera (100) not to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room (20) if the detection time acquired by the second sensor (832) is shorter than a preset time.

[0243] The control unit (900) can identify food based on the captured image received from the camera (100) (1500). The control unit (900) can obtain information on food being put into the storage room (20) and / or information on food being taken out from the storage room (20).

[0244] For example, the control unit (900) may control the user interface (810) to provide a photographing notification based on the camera (100) identifying food being placed into or taken out of the storage room (20). For example, the control unit (900) may control the user interface (810) to provide a visual and / or auditory notification. As a result, the user may recognize that food being placed into or taken out of the storage room (20) has been photographed by the camera (100).

[0245] While the door (30) is open to the storage room (20), food can be put into the storage room (20) (1600). While the door (30) is open to the storage room (20), food can be taken out from the storage room (20).

[0246] After food is put into or taken out of the storage room (20), the door (30) can close the storage room (20) (1700).

[0247] For example, the control unit (900) can determine whether the door (30) has closed the storage compartment (20) based on a detection signal received from the first sensor (831).

[0248] In response to the door (30) closing the storage compartment (20) (1700), the camera (100) may be moved and rotated to be positioned at a second position (P2) (1800). For example, the movable frame (300) may be moved rearward by being pressed by the door (30). For example, the camera (100) may be moved rearward and rotated within a predetermined range in conjunction with the movable frame (300). The lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to face the inside of the storage compartment (20).

[0249] After the door (30) closes the storage room (20), the control unit (900) can control the camera (100) to photograph food stored in the storage room (20) (2000). The camera (100) is installed at a second position (P2) and can photograph food placed in the storage room (20). The camera (100) can identify food stored in the storage room (20) and transmit information about the food stored in the storage room (20) to the control unit (900).

[0250] The control unit (900) can provide the user with information about food and / or notifications based on food information via the user interface (810) (2000). For example, the control unit (900) can output information about food stored in the storage compartment (20). For example, the control unit (900) can recommend recipes based on food information.

[0251] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment may include: a main body (10); a storage compartment (20) formed inside the main body (10); a door (30) rotatably provided to open and close the storage compartment (20); and a camera (100) mountable on the main body (10) so as to be positioned at least on one of the upper and lower sides of the storage compartment (20). The camera (100) is switchable between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2). While the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) may be provided at the first position (P1). While the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) may protrude toward the front of the storage compartment (20). While the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to face the outside of the storage compartment (20). While the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) may be arranged at a second position (P2). While the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the camera (100) may be inserted into the main body (10) from the first position (P1). While the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), the lens (110) of the camera (100) may be arranged to face the inside of the storage compartment (20).

[0252] When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the camera (100) may be arranged to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room (20). When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the camera (100) may be arranged to photograph food stored in the storage room (20).

[0253] The camera (100) can be switched from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) as it moves and rotates due to the pressing force of the door (30). The camera (100) can be switched from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1) as the pressing force of the door (30) is removed.

[0254] The refrigerator may include a fixed frame (400) mounted on the main body; a movable frame (300) that accommodates the camera and can be withdrawn from the fixed frame (400) and inserted into the fixed frame (400); and a spring (600) that is provided to elastically bias the movable frame (300) against the fixed frame (400).

[0255] The above-described movable frame (300) can be introduced into the fixed frame (400) by being pressed by the door (30). When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the movable frame (300) can be withdrawn from the fixed frame (400) by the elastic restoring force of the spring (600). When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the movable frame (300) can be introduced into the fixed frame (400) and the spring (600) can be compressed by the movable frame (300).

[0256] The spring (600) may have an elastic restoring force to move the camera (100) from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1).

[0257] The above-described moving frame (300) may include a guide rail (340) having a curved shape. The refrigerator may include a camera holder (200) provided to support the camera (100) within the moving frame (300); and a guide protrusion (500) fixed to the camera holder (200) via the guide rail (340). The guide protrusion (500) may be provided to rotate the camera holder (200) and the camera (100) as the moving frame (300) moves.

[0258] When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the guide protrusion (500) can be placed at the first end (341) of the guide rail. When the camera (100) is at the second position (P2), the guide protrusion (500) can be placed at the second end (342) of the guide rail.

[0259] The above moving frame (300) may include an opening (330). The opening (330) is provided to face the inside of the storage room (20) and may extend along the movement direction of the lens (110) of the camera.

[0260] When the camera (100) is at the first position (P1), the camera (100) may protrude from the storage room (20). The moving frame (300) may be provided so as to be in contact with the door (30).

[0261] The above moving frame (300) may include a curved portion (300a) whose central portion protrudes toward the outside of the storage room (20).

[0262] The above camera (100) may be placed on either the upper or lower side of the storage compartment (20). The camera (100) may be provided to be movable in the forward and backward direction (X direction). The camera (100) may be provided to be rotatable around a horizontal direction (Y direction) axis. The refrigerator may further include a reflective member (90) placed on either the upper or lower side of the storage compartment to face the camera.

[0263] The refrigerator may further include a motor (700) configured to switch the camera between the first position and the second position.

[0264] The refrigerator may further include a sensor (832) configured to detect at least one of a user or food located within a preset distance from the storage compartment (20). The refrigerator may further include a processor (910) configured to determine, based on information acquired by the sensor (832), whether to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage compartment (20).

[0265] The processor (910) can control the camera (100) to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room based on the detection of at least one of a user or food by the sensor (832) for a preset period of time after the door (30) opens the storage room (20).

[0266] A camera assembly according to one embodiment may be installed in a refrigerator including a main body forming a storage compartment (20) and a door (30) rotatably provided to open and close the storage compartment. The camera assembly (70) may include a fixed frame (400) mountable to the main body; a movable frame (300) extendable from the fixed frame and movable to be introduced into the fixed frame; and a camera (100) accommodated in the movable frame (300) and provided to be linked to the movement of the movable frame (300). While the door (30) opens the storage compartment (20), the movable frame (300) may be extended from the fixed frame (400), and the camera (100) may be provided to acquire an image of food entering the storage compartment. While the door (30) closes the storage room (20), the moving frame (300) may be introduced into the fixed frame (400), and the camera (100) may be arranged to obtain an image of food stored in the storage room.

[0267] The above camera assembly (70) may further include a spring (600) provided to elastically bias the moving frame (300) against the fixed frame (400).

[0268] The above moving frame (300) can be pulled out from the fixed frame (400) by the elastic restoring force of the spring (600).

[0269] The above moving frame (300) can be introduced into the fixed frame (400) by being pressurized by the door (30).

[0270] The storage compartment (20) of the above refrigerator can be opened forward. The camera (100) can move in the forward-backward direction (X direction) and can rotate around the horizontal direction (Y direction) axis.

[0271] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a storage medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments.

[0272] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0273] The methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0274] According to the invention, the convenience of use of a refrigerator can be improved.

[0275] According to the invention, a refrigerator may include a camera capable of photographing the exterior and interior of the storage compartment.

[0276] According to the present disclosure, a refrigerator can obtain information about food being placed into a storage room, food being taken out of the storage room, and / or food being stored in the storage room. Furthermore, the refrigerator can provide users with notifications and other information based on the food information. This allows the refrigerator to more easily manage food.

[0277] 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 will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0278] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. Main body; A storage room formed inside the main body; A door that is rotatable to open and close the storage room; and A camera mountable on the main body, such that it is positioned on at least one of the upper or lower sides of the storage room; The above camera, A first position in which the door protrudes forward of the storage room while the storage room is opened, and the lens of the camera is arranged to face the outside of the storage room; A refrigerator switchable between a first position and a second position, wherein the door is inserted into the interior of the main body while the door closes the storage compartment, and the lens of the camera is arranged to face the interior of the storage compartment.

2. In paragraph 1, When the camera is at the first position, the camera is arranged to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room, A refrigerator wherein the camera is arranged to photograph food stored in the storage compartment when the camera is in the second position.

3. In paragraph 1, The above camera, As the door moves and rotates due to the pressure of the door, it switches from the first position to the second position, A refrigerator that switches from the second position to the first position as the pressure on the door is removed.

4. In paragraph 1, A fixed frame mounted on the above body; A movable frame that accommodates the camera and can be withdrawn from and inserted into the fixed frame; and A refrigerator comprising a spring configured to elastically bias the movable frame relative to the fixed frame.

5. In paragraph 4, The above movable frame is introduced into the fixed frame by being pressurized by the door, When the camera is at the first position, the moving frame is pulled out from the fixed frame by the elastic restoring force of the spring, A refrigerator in which the movable frame is inserted into the fixed frame when the camera is in the second position and the spring is compressed by the movable frame.

6. In paragraph 4, The above spring, A refrigerator having an elastic restoring force for moving the camera from the second position to the first position.

7. In paragraph 4, The above moving frame includes a guide rail having a curved shape, The above refrigerator, a camera holder provided to support the camera within the movable frame; and A refrigerator further comprising a guide protrusion fixed to the camera holder through the guide rail, the guide protrusion being arranged to rotate the camera holder and the camera as the moving frame moves.

8. In paragraph 7, When the camera is in the first position, the guide protrusion is arranged at the first end of the guide rail, A refrigerator in which the guide protrusion is disposed at the second end of the guide rail when the camera is in the second position.

9. In paragraph 4, The above moving frame is, A refrigerator having an opening facing the inside of the storage compartment and extending along the direction of movement of the lens of the camera.

10. In paragraph 4, When the camera is in the first position, the camera protrudes beyond the storage room, A refrigerator in which the above moving frame is provided so as to be in contact with the door.

11. In paragraph 10, The above moving frame is, A refrigerator having a central portion including a curved portion protruding toward the outside of the storage compartment.

12. In paragraph 1, The above camera is placed on either the upper or lower side of the storage room, The above camera can move forward and backward and can rotate around a horizontal axis, The above refrigerator, A refrigerator further comprising a reflective member disposed on one of the upper or lower sides of the storage compartment so as to face the camera.

13. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator further comprising a motor configured to switch the camera between the first position and the second position.

14. In paragraph 1, A sensor configured to detect at least one of a user or food located within a preset distance from the storage room; and A refrigerator including a processor that determines whether to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage room based on information acquired by the sensor.

15. In paragraph 14, A refrigerator in which the processor controls the camera to photograph food being put into or taken out of the storage compartment based on at least one of a user or food being detected by the sensor for a preset period of time after the door opens the storage compartment.

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