Storage container and refrigerator comprising same

Abstract

A storage container and a refrigerator, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, comprise: a case installed in a storage space and defining a storage space having an opening formed on one side thereof; a drawer opening and closing the storage space of the case; a vacuum pump forming negative pressure in the storage space; and a second connector coupled to a first connector formed in the storage space to supply power to the vacuum pump.

Description

Storage containers and refrigerators containing the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a storage container and a refrigerator including the same, and more particularly, to a storage container and a refrigerator including the same that stores food separately from an internal storage space without significantly sacrificing the internal storage space and insulation of the internal walls.

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

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

[0004] In the case of patent document 1, a vacuum sealed container is disclosed that is placed inside a refrigerator and maintains the inside of the storage space at a slight vacuum by a battery.

[0005] However, in the case of patent document 1, the operation of the vacuum sealed container is performed by a charged battery, and since the vacuum sealed container is not completely sealed from the outside, the vacuum pump must be periodically restarted to maintain a slight vacuum inside the vacuum sealed container.

[0006] However, when using a rechargeable battery in this way, there is a problem that the vacuum pump cannot operate for a long time, and a weak vacuum cannot be created inside the sealed container during the battery replacement and charging time, so the vacuum sealed container cannot fully function.

[0007] Patent Document 2 discloses a vacuum vegetable compartment integrated into the storage compartment of a refrigerator. Patent Document 2 includes a valve and a pump for regulating the pressure of the vacuum vegetable compartment within the refrigerator body. Therefore, if the vacuum vegetable compartment is not being used by the user, the connection between the pump installed within the body and the vacuum vegetable compartment prevents the user from removing the vacuum vegetable compartment or moving it to a desired location.

[0008] [Prior Art Literature]

[0009] [Patent Document]

[0010] (Patent Document 0001) Republic of Korea Publication No. 10-2021-0016503

[0011] (Patent Document 0002) Republic of Korea Publication Patent No. 10-2021-0016503

[0012] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a storage container connected to a connector installed in a storage space of a refrigerator, in which a negative pressure is maintained inside by the main power of the refrigerator, and a refrigerator including the same.

[0013] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a storage container and a refrigerator including the same, which minimizes design changes to existing mass-produced refrigerators, reduces dew formation on connector portions, and improves waterproof and dustproof performance.

[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a storage container and a refrigerator including the same, which can effectively filter the air in a storage space by utilizing the dead zone of the storage space, such as the bottom of a shelf, the rear of the storage space, and the side of the storage space, and can be installed close to a cabinet of the refrigerator without obstructing the flow of cold air in the refrigerator when the storage container is placed in the dead zone of the storage space.

[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a storage container and a refrigerator including the same, which can be fixed to suit the convenience of a user while adjusting the length of a power cable exposed to the outside of the storage container.

[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a storage container that can be easily placed on a shelf of a storage space and moved left and right while placed on the shelf, and a refrigerator including the same.

[0017] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a storage container and a refrigerator including the same that facilitates opening of a drawer due to negative pressure in the storage container.

[0018] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a storage container and a refrigerator including the same capable of controlling a pump and a valve of the storage container depending on the pressure of the storage container, whether the storage container is sealed, and whether the door is open.

[0019] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator in which the connector is movable in the forward and backward direction of the storage space, so that when a user connects a storage container, he or she can connect it near the door and move the storage container to the dead zone.

[0020] The tasks of the present disclosure are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0021] In order to achieve the above-described purpose, a storage container and a refrigerator according to one aspect of the present disclosure are characterized in that they are powered by a second connector connected to a first connector of the refrigerator and provide a space and environment separate from the storage space.

[0022] In addition, a storage container according to one aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in that it is placed on a shelf of a refrigerator.

[0023] Specifically, a storage container according to one aspect of the present disclosure is characterized by including a case installed in a storage space and defining a storage space having an opening formed on one side, a drawer for opening and closing the storage space of the case, a vacuum pump for forming a negative pressure in the storage space, and a second connector coupled to a first connector formed in the storage space for supplying power to the vacuum pump.

[0024] The second connector can receive a control signal for controlling the vacuum pump from the first connector.

[0025] The above case may further include a machine room accommodating the vacuum pump.

[0026] It may further include a suction pipe connecting the vacuum pump and the storage space.

[0027] The above case may further include a suction hole into which the suction tube is inserted, and a suction cover that covers the suction hole and connects the suction hole and the receiving space.

[0028] The above suction cover may include a cover portion arranged to overlap the suction hole in one direction, and a support portion that connects the cover portion and the case and separates the cover portion from the suction hole.

[0029] The above suction hole may be located on a surface of the case facing the opening.

[0030] The drawer may include a receiving portion that is inserted into the interior of the case and forms a receiving space for receiving stored items, and a front portion that is arranged at one end of the receiving portion and comes into contact with the edge of the opening to seal the case.

[0031] In addition, the present disclosure may further include a sealing member disposed in a mutual contact area between the front portion and the edge of the opening.

[0032] Additionally, the present disclosure may further include an opening unit installed in the drawer to optionally separate the drawer from the case.

[0033] The above-mentioned opening unit may include a lever installed to slide on the drawer, a rack gear connected to the lever, a pinion gear meshed with the rack gear and rotatably installed on the drawer, and a push rack meshed with the pinion gear.

[0034] When the lever is moved in one direction, the push rack can push the case while moving in the opposite direction to the one direction.

[0035] The above open unit may further include a rack guide installed in the drawer and guiding the push rack and the rack gear.

[0036] The above case can be removed from the above shelf.

[0037] In addition, the present disclosure further includes a mounting unit for mounting the case on the shelf, and the mounting unit may include a mounting plate coupled to the case, a first fixing part for fixing one end of the mounting plate to one end of the shelf, and a second fixing part for fixing the other end of the mounting plate to the other end of the shelf.

[0038] The above first fixed part can define a space in which one end of the mounting plate is banded and one end of the shelf is inserted.

[0039] The second fixed part can define a space into which the other end of the mounting plate is inserted and a space into which the other end of the shelf is inserted.

[0040] The second connector may include a head coupled with the first connector and a cable connected to the head and electrically connected to the power supply.

[0041] The second connector may include a wire fixing portion coupled to the cable and a wire coupling portion coupled to the case to exert coupling force on the wire fixing portion.

[0042] In addition, a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cabinet forming a storage space, a door for opening and closing the storage space, a shelf for dividing the storage space, and a storage container arranged in the storage space, wherein the storage container includes a case installed in the storage space and defining a storage space having an opening formed on one side, a drawer for opening and closing the storage space of the case, a vacuum pump forming a negative pressure in the storage space, and a second connector coupled to a first connector formed in the storage space for supplying power to the vacuum pump, wherein the storage container is characterized in that it is detachably attached to the shelf.

[0043] In addition, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator includes a cabinet forming a storage space, a door opening and closing the storage space, and a storage container disposed in the storage space, wherein the storage container includes a case installed in the storage space and defining a storage space having an opening formed on one side, a drawer opening and closing the storage space of the case, a vacuum pump forming a negative pressure in the storage space, and a second connector coupled to a first connector formed in the storage space to supply power to the vacuum pump, and further includes a door sensor detecting whether the door is opened and closed, a sealing sensor detecting whether the drawer is opened and closed, a pressure sensor measuring the pressure of the storage space, an opening and closing valve disposed in a suction pipe connecting the vacuum pump and the inside of the case, and a control unit controlling at least one of the vacuum pump and the opening and closing valve based on whether the door is opened and closed, whether the drawer is opened and closed, and the pressure of the storage space.

[0044] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0045] The present disclosure has the advantage of not requiring a separate power source when arranging storage containers in the refrigerator, since the connector of the storage container is connected to the connector installed in the storage space of the refrigerator and operates by receiving the main power of the refrigerator, the advantage of being able to easily change and install various storage containers with various functions, and the advantage of being able to widely use the storage space in the case of users who do not need storage containers.

[0046] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of minimizing design changes to existing mass-produced refrigerators by forming a hole in the inner case on one side of the storage space and forming a mounting space sunken in the direction of the insulation in the inner case, installing a connector by utilizing a portion of the internal structure of the current refrigerator to supply power, reducing dew formation in the connector portion, and improving waterproof and dustproof performance.

[0047] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of maximizing the use of dead zones and preventing the storage containers from obstructing airflow, since the storage containers can be placed under the shelf, which is a dead zone of the storage space of the built-in storage unit, at the rear of the storage space, and adjacent to the side of the storage space.

[0048] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of being able to easily adjust the length of the power cable exposed to the outside when the storage container is moved, and being able to easily organize the power cable, since a wire fixing part for fixing the power cable to the case of the storage container is installed.

[0049] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of being able to easily fix a storage container to a position adjacent to the bottom of the shelf, which is a dead zone, through a mounting unit fitted to the front and rear ends of the shelves of a refrigerator, and being able to easily move the storage container left and right while mounted on the shelf.

[0050] In addition, the present disclosure has a structure in which the front end of the shelf of the refrigerator is fixed to a first fixing part formed integrally with the mounting plate, and the rear end of the shelf is fixed to a second fixing part that is separate and is connected to the rear end of the mounting plate and the rear end of the shelf, so that when mounting plates are connected to the front and rear of the shelf to secure a heavy storage container, one side of the mounting plate is hung and the second fixing part is inserted into the other side, so that the user can easily place the storage container on the shelf and has the advantage of being able to support heavy weights.

[0051] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of solving the problem of the drawer not being easily withdrawn from the case due to negative pressure in the storage container, since the push rack separates the drawer and the case when the lever of the opening unit is pulled.

[0052] In addition, the present disclosure controls the pump and valve of the storage container depending on the pressure of the storage container, whether the storage container is sealed, and whether the door is open, so it has the advantage of being able to precisely control the storage container depending on the usage environment.

[0053] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of being able to transmit data in real time not only about power but also about the operating status of the module to the main MCU through a connector, thereby informing the operating status of the module through a display or consumer alarm, and implementing UX operations of the module to help consumer convenience by linking it with the opening of the refrigerator door and the degree of contamination inside the refrigerator.

[0054] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0055] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the open door portion of the refrigerator illustrated in Figure 1.

[0057] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a second connector of a storage container coupled to the first connector illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0058] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4' of Figure 3.

[0059] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a storage container installed in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the storage container illustrated in Figure 5.

[0061] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the storage container illustrated in Figure 5.

[0062] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the storage container illustrated in Figure 5.

[0063] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating the area around a suction hole of a case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an open unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Figure 11a is a drawing showing the operation of the open unit of Figure 10.

[0066] Figure 11b is a drawing showing the operation of the open unit of Figure 10.

[0067] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating a storage container according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 13a is a drawing illustrating a first connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Figure 13b is a drawing showing the first connector illustrated in Figure 13a moved from the front to the rear.

[0070] Figure 13c is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13c-13c' of Figure 13b.

[0071] FIG. 15 is a block diagram schematically showing the connection status of major components of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Figure 16 is a flowchart sequentially showing the operation of the refrigerator according to the installation of the above additional device.

[0073] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a storage container according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074]

[0075] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0076] The suffixes “module” and “part” used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing specifications, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0077] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0078] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0079] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0080] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0081] Before explaining, let's define the direction. In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the direction in which the front of the door as shown in FIG. 1 faces is defined as front, the direction toward the cabinet based on the front of the door is defined as rear, the direction toward the floor surface on which the refrigerator is installed is defined as downward, and the direction away from the floor surface is defined as upward.

[0082] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the refrigerator (1) illustrated in FIG. 1 with the door (20) opened.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a refrigerator (1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may have an exterior formed by a cabinet (10) forming a storage space (12, 13) and a door (20) for opening and closing the storage space (12, 13).

[0084] The storage space (12, 13) inside the cabinet (10) can be partitioned vertically by partition walls (11), and a refrigerator (12) can be formed in the upper part of the cabinet (10) and a freezer (13) can be formed in the lower part of the cabinet (10).

[0085] The storage space (12, 13) can be partitioned vertically by shelves (9). Specifically, the refrigerator (12) can be partitioned vertically by shelves (9). The shelves (9) extend in a direction parallel to the front-back direction.

[0086] For example, the cabinet (10) may include a rear surface (123) facing the door (20), and a side surface (122) extending from the edge of the rear surface (123) and defining a surface intersecting the rear surface (123). The side surface (122) may extend in the front-back direction.

[0087] In addition, a control unit (15)(14) for controlling the overall operation of the refrigerator (1)(10) may be formed on the upper surface of the cabinet (10). The control unit (15)(14) may control the operation of the refrigerator (1)(10) as well as the operation of an additional device (600) to be described below.

[0088] And, the control unit (15) is connected to an output unit (141) to output the operating status of the refrigerator (1). The output unit (141) may include a display that displays information on a screen or a speaker that displays information in the form of voice. And, the control unit (15) is connected to an operation unit (17) to input operations for the operation of the refrigerator (1). In addition to physical input methods such as buttons, switches, and touch, the operation unit (17) may also include a microphone capable of inputting voice.

[0089] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit (15) is described as being placed on the upper surface of the cabinet (10), but the control unit (15) may be provided at various locations of the refrigerator (1), and may be configured in multiple units and placed at different locations.

[0090] The door (20) may be composed of a refrigerator door (21) and a freezer door (22). The refrigerator door (21) may be configured to open and close the open front of the refrigerator (12) by rotating, and the freezer door (22) may be configured to open and close the open front of the freezer (13) by rotating. Meanwhile, the refrigerator door (21) may be referred to as an upper door (20) because it is provided at the top, and the freezer door (22) may be referred to as a lower door (20) because it is provided at the bottom.

[0091] And, the refrigerator door (21) may be configured to be provided with a left and right pair so that the refrigerator (12) is shielded by the pair of doors (21, 22). And, the freezer door (22) may be provided with a left and right pair so that the freezer (13) is opened and closed by the pair of doors (20). Of course, the freezer door (22) may be configured to be drawer-type and withdrawable as needed, and may be configured with one or more doors.

[0092] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator (1) having a bottom freeze type refrigerator (1) with a freezer (13) provided at the bottom and a French type door (20) that rotates to open and close a single space is described as an example, but the present disclosure can be applied to any type of refrigerator (1) in which a camera module can be installed, regardless of the shape of the refrigerator (1).

[0093] Meanwhile, at least one of the pair of refrigerator doors (21) may be configured with a main door (40) and a sub-door (30). The main door (40) may be rotatably mounted on the cabinet (10) to open and close the refrigerator (12). In addition, an opening (41 in FIG. 2) may be formed through the main door (40).

[0094] The sub-door (30) is provided in front of the main door (40) and can be rotatably mounted on the main door (40). In addition, the sub-door (30) can open and close the opening (41). In addition, the sub-door (30) can be formed with a transparent portion (31) that can view the inside of the opening (41). The transparent portion (31) can be composed of at least one transparent panel and can be selectively configured so that the inside of the opening (41) is visible. In addition, if necessary, the transparent portion (31) can be composed of a display device such as an LCD capable of screen output or a transparent LCD.

[0095]

[0096] Below, the structure inside the cabinet (10) of the refrigerator (1) and the structure of the first connector (200) installed in the cabinet (10) are described in detail.

[0097] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a second connector (300) coupled to the first connector (200) shown in FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4' of FIG. 3.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 3, a first connector (200) may be installed in the cabinet (10). The first connector (200) may transmit and receive power and data to and from an additional device (600) located in the storage space (12, 13). The additional device (600) may be optionally mounted in the refrigerator (1) to upgrade the functionality of the refrigerator (1) or provide additional functions.

[0099] In addition, the additional device (600) may have an independent function added to the general cooling operation of the refrigerator (1). For example, the additional device (600) may include at least one sterilizing storage container (600) that purifies and sterilizes the air inside the refrigerator (1), a chiller that provides a temperature lower than the storage space (12, 13), a sealed room that provides a pressure lower than the storage space (12, 13), and a sensing module that senses various states inside the storage space (12, 13).

[0100] At this time, the first connector (200) can be configured to be automatically recognized and operable when an additional device (600) is mounted.

[0101] A second connector (300) coupled with the first connector (200) may be installed in this additional device (600). The second connector (300) is connected to the additional device (600) via a power cable (370), but may also be formed integrally with the main body of the additional device (600).

[0102] The first connector (200) is preferably positioned at a location that does not interfere with food storage containers stored in the storage space (12, 13). For example, the first connector (200) may be positioned outside the storage space (12, 13). Specifically, the first connector (200) may be positioned inside the cabinet (10) so as to supply power to an additional device (600) inside without sacrificing the storage space (12, 13) of the refrigerator (1).

[0103] Here, the storage space (12, 13) means a hexahedral space defined by the side (122) and the back (123) of the cabinet (10) and the door (20), and being located outside the storage space (12, 13) means being located outside the above-described hexahedral space.

[0104] More specifically, the first connection terminal (211) may be located outside the storage space (12, 13). That is, a part of the first connector (200) may be located inside the storage space (12, 13), and another part of the first connector (200), particularly the part where the first connection terminal (211) is located, may be located outside the storage space (12, 13).

[0105] Preferably, the first connector (200) is positioned on the side (122) adjacent to the rear (123) of the cabinet (10) and may be positioned adjacent to the bottom of the shelf (9). When a user stores a storage container in the storage space (12, 13), the container is usually stored starting from the entrance side near the door (20) and is stored by stacking upwards on the shelf (9). Therefore, a dead zone is formed in the area adjacent to the rear (123) of the cabinet (10) and the area adjacent to the bottom of the shelf (9).

[0106] Accordingly, the first connector (200) is positioned at the side (122) of the storage space (12, 13), is tilted rearward, and is positioned adjacent to the lower surface of the shelf (9), so that the connector is positioned in the deadest space in the storage space (12, 13) of the refrigerator (1), thereby utilizing the dead zone.

[0107] The cabinet (10) may include an inner case (102) forming a storage space (12, 13) and an outer case (101) coupled with the inner case (102) to form the exterior of the cabinet (10). In addition, an insulating material (103) may be filled between the inner case (102) and the outer case (101).

[0108] The outer case (101) is formed of a metal material to form the outer shape of the cabinet (10), and the inner case (102) is vacuum-formed of a relatively thin plastic material to form the inner shape of the storage space (12, 13).

[0109] The inner case (102) can form the upper and lower surfaces, left and right sides, of the refrigerator compartment (12). In addition, if necessary, the inner case (102) can also form at least a portion of the rear surface (123) of the refrigerator compartment (12). In addition, the rear surface (123) of the refrigerator compartment (12) can be formed by a grill fan (620) assembly (121). The grill fan (620) assembly (121) can form a path for the flow of cold air inside the refrigerator.

[0110] The first connector (200) may be installed in the inner case (102). For example, the inner case (102) may be formed with a connector hole (102b) in which the first connector (200) is installed. A portion of the first connector (200) may be exposed to the storage space (12, 13) through the connector hole (102b) of the inner case (102).

[0111] The first connector (200) may include a body (220) and a first connection terminal (211). The body (220) accommodates the first connection terminal (211) therein and is installed in the inner case (102). The body (220) may include a mounting space (210) that is open to a storage space (12, 13).

[0112] Specifically, the body (220) may include an exposed surface (230) that is exposed to the storage space (12, 13) when the body (220) is installed in the inner case (102) and a mounting space (210) formed by the exposed surface (230) being sunken in the outer direction of the storage space (12, 13).

[0113] The mounting space (210) is opened to the storage space (12, 13) through the connector hole (102b) and defines a space into which the insertion portion (320) of the second connector (300) is inserted.

[0114] A first connection terminal (211) for transmitting and receiving power and data may be placed in the mounting space (210). The first connection terminal (211) may be electrically connected to the main power and main control unit (15) of the refrigerator (1). The position of the first connection terminal (211) is not limited, but may be placed at a position as far away as possible from the storage space (12, 13) for waterproofing and dustproofing. Specifically, the first connection terminal (211) may be installed at a position farthest from the exposed surface (230) of the body (220) in the mounting space (210).

[0115] More specifically, the first connection terminal (211) may be positioned between the inner case (102) and the outer case (101). If the moisture-sensitive first connection terminal (211) is positioned apart from the inner case (102), the waterproof performance of the first connection terminal (211) can be improved.

[0116] The mounting space (210) may have various shapes. For example, the vertical length of the mounting space (210) may be longer than the front-back length of the mounting space (210). If the vertical length of the mounting space (210) is formed to be longer than the front-back length of the mounting space (210), the space occupied by the connector is reduced, and since it is formed to be longer in the vertical direction, the vertical fixing force can be increased.

[0117] The mounting space (210) may have a shape in which the vertical length decreases as it gets farther away from the storage space (12, 13). If the vertical length of the mounting space (210) gets smaller as it gets farther away from the storage space (12, 13), when it is combined with the insertion portion (320) of the second connector (300), it serves to guide the insertion portion (320).

[0118] The first connector (200) may be formed so that the exposed surface (230) of the body (220) is exposed to the storage space (12, 13), and the surface of the body (220) other than the exposed surface (230) may be covered with an insulating material. Accordingly, even if cold air is exposed to the outside through the first connector (200), it is blocked by the insulating material.

[0119] The first connector (200) may further include a first sealing ring (250) that seals between the body (220) and the inner case (102). The body (220) and the inner case (102) may be bonded to each other or joined together.

[0120] The first sealing ring (250) can be in contact with the body (220) and the inner case (102). Specifically, the first sealing ring (250) can be positioned to surround a portion of the body (220) adjacent to the exposed surface (230).

[0121] More specifically, the body (220) may further include a first sealing groove (275) in which a first sealing ring (250) is installed, spaced apart from the storage space (12, 13) on the exposed surface (230). The first sealing ring (250) seals between the surface of the inner case (102) facing the insulation (103) and the body (220). Preferably, the first sealing ring (250) may be arranged to surround the connector hole (102b).

[0122] The first connector (200) may further include a female holder (240) installed on the exposed surface (230) to generate a bonding force. The female holder (240) may include a magnet or magnetic body that is in contact with the magnetic body or magnet of the second connector (300) described below by magnetic force.

[0123] Two arm holders (240) may be installed. For example, the first arm holder (241) may be positioned above the mounting space (210) on the exposed surface (230), and the second arm holder (242) may be positioned below the mounting space (210) on the exposed surface (230).

[0124] When two arm holders (240) are arranged vertically apart, there is an advantage in that they can have a large resistance when a force is applied in the vertical direction due to the weight of the additional device (600) being mounted.

[0125]

[0126] Hereinafter, the structure of the second connector (300) coupled with the first connector (200) will be described in detail. The second connector (300) may be connected to a storage container (600), which is one of the additional devices, by a cable (370), or may be coupled to the case of the storage container (600).

[0127] The second connector (300) is coupled to the first connector (200) and transmits and receives power and data to and from the first connector (200). The second connector (300) may be formed integrally with the additional device (600). Alternatively, it may be formed separately and connected to the additional device (600) by a cable (370).

[0128] The second connector (300) may include a head (330), an insertion portion (320) inserted into the mounting space (210), and a second connection terminal (310) formed in the insertion portion (320) and brought into contact with the first connection terminal (211).

[0129] The head (330) is connected to an additional device (600) by a cable (370) that is electrically connected, and the cable (370) is electrically connected to a second connection terminal (310) through the head (330).

[0130] The head (330) may have a larger size than the insertion portion (320). The head (330) may have a larger size than the mounting space (210), so that when the insertion portion (320) is inserted into the mounting space (210), the head (330) may cover the periphery of the insertion space (exposed surface (230)).

[0131] Preferably, the head (330) may have a size and shape corresponding to the exposed surface (230).

[0132] The insertion portion (320) may be formed by protruding from the head (330). The shape of the insertion portion (320) may have a shape corresponding to the mounting space (210). For example, the vertical length of the insertion portion (320) may be longer than the front-back length of the insertion portion (320).

[0133] The vertical length of the insertion part (320) may become smaller as it gets farther away from the head (330). As the vertical length of the insertion part (320) becomes smaller as it gets farther away from the head (330), the coupling position of the insertion part (320) is guided by the shape of the insertion part (320) and the mounting space (210).

[0134] The second connection terminal (310) can be positioned at the furthest position from the head (330) in the insertion portion (320).

[0135] The second connector (300) may further include a second sealing ring (350) that is installed in the insertion portion (320) and comes into contact with the body (220) defining the mounting space (210). The second sealing ring (350) prevents moisture or dust from entering the space between the insertion portion (320) and the mounting space (210).

[0136] Specifically, the second sealing ring (350) may be positioned closer to the head (330) than the second connection terminal (310) in the insertion portion (320). The second sealing ring (350) may be positioned to surround the insertion portion (320) in a ring shape. Although not shown in the drawing, a groove into which the second sealing ring (350) is inserted may be formed in the insertion portion (320).

[0137] A male holder (340) that generates a bonding force may be installed in the head (330). The male holder (340) may be brought into contact with a magnetic body or magnet of the first connector (200) by magnetic force. For example, the male holder (340) may include a magnet or a magnetic body.

[0138] Two water holders (340) may be installed. For example, the first water holder (341) may be positioned above the insertion portion (320) in the head (330), and the second water holder (342) may be positioned below the insertion portion (320) in the head (330).

[0139] When two number holders (340) are arranged vertically apart, there is an advantage in that they can have a large resistance when a force is applied in the vertical direction due to the weight of the additional device (600) being mounted.

[0140]

[0141] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a storage container (600) installed in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 5, for example, the additional device (600) may include a storage container (600). The storage container (600) may define a separate storage space (A) distinct from the storage spaces (12, 13). Furthermore, the storage container (600) may provide a separate environment that is environmentally distinct from the storage spaces (12, 13). Specifically, the storage container (600) may provide a space with a lower pressure than the storage spaces (12, 13).

[0143] For example, the storage container (600) may have a hexahedral shape. The storage container (600) may have a case (610) positioned at the rear and a portion of a drawer (620) exposed at the front.

[0144] The storage container (600) can be positioned to utilize the bottom of the shelf (9), which is a dead zone of the storage space (12, 13) of the internal storage.

[0145] One side of the case (610) of the storage container (600) is arranged adjacent to the side (122) of the storage space (12, 13), the upper surface of the case (610) of the storage container (600) is arranged adjacent to the shelf (9), the rear surface of the case (610) of the storage container (600) is arranged adjacent to the rear surface (123) of the storage space (12, 13), and the lower surface of the case (610) of the storage container (600) and the drawer (620) can be arranged to be exposed to the storage space (12, 13).

[0146] The front, bottom and left side of the storage container (600) are exposed to the storage space (12, 13), and the right side, top and back side of the storage container (600) are arranged in contact with or adjacent to the side (122), shelf (9) and back side (123).

[0147] Accordingly, the space occupied by the storage container (600) is reduced, the dead zone is utilized to the maximum extent, and the drawer (620) is exposed to the front of the storage space (12, 13), so there is an advantage in that there is no obstruction in opening the storage container (600).

[0148]

[0149] Below, the structure of the storage container (600) is described in detail.

[0150] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the storage container (600) illustrated in FIG. 5, FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the storage container (600) illustrated in FIG. 5, FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the storage container (600) illustrated in FIG. 5, and FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating the area around the suction hole (613a) of the case (610) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, a storage container (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a case (610), a drawer (620), a vacuum pump (651), and a second connector (300).

[0152] The case (610) is placed in a storage space, and an opening (611) is formed in the front of the case (610), and a storage space (A) for storing the stored material can be formed inside.

[0153] The case (610) has a dual structure of an inner case and an outer case, and the inner case can be installed in a removable manner in the outer case.

[0154] For example, the case (610) may be formed as a rectangular parallelepiped with a storage space (A) formed therein. More specifically, the case (610) may be formed so that only the front (opening (611)) through which the drawer (620) is stored or withdrawn is open, and the remaining five sides are closed.

[0155] That is, based on FIG. 7, the case (610) may have an opening (611) formed in the front, a rear surface (616) of the case (610) may be arranged at the rear, an upper surface of the case (610) and a lower surface of the case (610) may be arranged above and below, and side surfaces of the case (610) may be arranged on both sides. In addition, the upper surface of the case (610) and the lower surface of the case (610) may have a larger area than the side surface of the case (610).

[0156] A flange (619) extending outwardly from the storage space (A) may be further formed on the edge of the opening (611). That is, the flange (619) may be formed by extending outwardly to the front of the case (610).

[0157] The flange (619) may be arranged perpendicular to the side surfaces and the upper and lower surfaces of the case (610). Here, being arranged perpendicularly means that the flange (619) is formed to extend in the upper and lower directions and left and right directions of the case (610). In addition, the meaning of the vertical described above does not mean a perfect verticality in the mathematical sense, but a verticality within a range that includes an error in the engineering sense.

[0158] The flange (619) is arranged perpendicular to the upper and lower surfaces of the case (610), thereby preventing sagging of the edge of the opening (611) caused by negative pressure inside the case (610).

[0159] In addition, the flange (619) provides an area that comes into contact with the drawer (620) when the drawer (620) seals the interior of the case (610). In particular, when the interior of the case (610) is kept close to a vacuum, the interior of the case (610) must be completely sealed from the exterior, and the flange (619) provides a space where the drawer (620) comes into contact, thereby improving the sealing performance of the vegetable compartment (100) for the refrigerator.

[0160] Additionally, when a sealing member (623) is used in the contact area between the drawer (620) and the case (610), a space where the sealing member (623) makes contact is also provided.

[0161] A vacuum pump (651) that forms a negative pressure (super vacuum) inside the case (610) may be installed in the case (610). The vacuum pump (651) may be connected to the storage space (A) of the case (610) by a suction pipe (652). Accordingly, when the drawer (620) is stored inside the case (610), the air inside the case (610) can be discharged, thereby depressurizing the inside of the case (610).

[0162] A suction pipe (652) may be provided with an on-off valve (653) for opening and closing the suction pipe (652) and a pressure sensor (654) for measuring the pressure of the suction pipe (652). The on-off valve (653) may include an electronic valve.

[0163] The vacuum pump (651), the pressure sensor (654), and the on-off valve (653) may be placed inside or outside the case (610). Preferably, the vacuum pump (651), the pressure sensor (654), and the on-off valve (653) may be placed inside the case (610).

[0164] For example, the case (610) may further include a machine room (612) that accommodates a vacuum pump (651). The internal space of the case (610) may be divided into a machine room (612) sealed by a partition wall (613) and a storage space (A) having an opening (611).

[0165] More preferably, the vacuum pump (651), the pressure sensor (654) and the opening / closing valve (653) may be placed in the machine room (612) inside the case (610).

[0166] The case (610) may further include a suction hole (613a) into which a suction tube (652) is inserted. The suction hole (613a) may be located on a surface of the case (610) facing the opening (611). Specifically, the suction hole (613a) may be located in the partition wall (613).

[0167] Air within the storage space (A) is discharged to the outside via the vacuum pump (651) through the suction hole (613a). However, if food is stored in the storage space (A), there is a problem of blocking the suction hole (613a). To solve this problem, the present disclosure may further include a suction cover (615).

[0168] In particular, referring to FIG. 9, the suction cover (615) allows the suction hole (613a) to be separated from the food while communicating with the storage space (A). The suction cover (615) may have a structure that covers the suction hole (613a) and connects the suction hole (613a) and the storage space.

[0169] For example, the suction cover (615) may include a cover portion (6152) that is arranged to overlap the suction hole (613a) in one direction, and a support portion (6151) (6151) that connects the cover portion (6152) and the case (610) and separates the cover portion (6152) from the suction hole (613a).

[0170] A plurality of support members (6151) may be arranged to surround the suction hole (613a) while being spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, air flows into the suction hole (613a) through the space between the plurality of support members (6151).

[0171] The drawer (620) opens and closes the storage space (A) of the case (610). The drawer (620) may have a receiving portion (621) that forms a receiving space in which stored items are received, and a front portion (622, 624) arranged at one end of the receiving portion (621).

[0172] The receiving portion (621) is drawn into and out of the case (610) in a drawer-like manner. For example, a rail (625) that slides on the case (610) is formed on the outer surface of the receiving portion (621), so that the receiving portion (621) moves forward and backward along the guidance of the rail (625) into the case (610).

[0173] For example, the receiving portion (621) may have a hexahedral shape with an open top and front.

[0174] The front portion (622, 624) may be positioned in front of the receiving portion (621) and may be formed to have an expanded size compared to the receiving portion (621). Accordingly, the edges of the front portions (622, 624) come into contact with the edges of the opening (611) to seal the case (610).

[0175] The front portion (622, 624) may be implemented in a roughly rectangular (cuboid) shape. More specifically, it is preferable that the front portion (622, 624) have a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape of the flange (619) of the opening (611). That is, the front portion (622, 624) may be formed so as to be in contact with the flange (619) of the case (610).

[0176] Additionally, the front part (622, 624) may be provided with a handle (not shown) for withdrawal or storage.

[0177] The front portion (622, 624) may include a first front member (622) that comes into contact with the edge of the opening (611) to seal the case (610), and a second front member (624) that covers the front of the first front member (622) and accommodates a portion of the open unit (630) between the first front member (622).

[0178] The second front member (624) can expose a portion of the opening unit (630) to the front. The second front member can expose the lever (631) of the opening unit (630) to the front.

[0179] When the interior of the case (610) is sealed by the drawer (620), a pressure difference occurs between the interior and exterior of the case (610). That is, when the interior of the case (610) is sealed by the drawer (620), the interior of the case (610) is depressurized by the pressure reducing portion, so that the pressure becomes lower than that of the exterior of the case (610).

[0180] A sealing member (623) that seals the inside and outside of the case (610) when the drawer (620) is stored may be provided in the mutual contact area of ​​the front part (622, 624) of the drawer (620) and the edge of the opening (611). The sealing member (623) may be formed of, for example, a rubber material.

[0181] The sealing member (623) may be provided in a closed-loop shape along the edge (or flange (619)) of the opening (611).

[0182] The power supply unit (not shown) is electrically connected to the second connector (300) and can provide power to the vacuum pump (651), the on-off valve (653), and the pressure sensor (654). Of course, the power supply unit may be omitted, and the second connector (300) may be electrically connected directly to the vacuum pump (651), the on-off valve (653), and the pressure sensor (654).

[0183] The second connector (300) receives a control signal for controlling the vacuum pump (651) from the first connector (200). The second connector (300) receives a control signal for controlling the pressure sensor (654) and the opening / closing valve (653) from the first connector (200).

[0184] The second connector (300) is coupled with the first connector (200) formed in the storage space (12, 13) to supply power to the power supply unit. The second connector (300) is coupled with the first connector (200) formed in the storage space (12, 13) to supply power to the vacuum pump (651), the opening / closing valve (653), and the pressure sensor (654).

[0185] The second connector (300) is positioned apart from the case (610) and can be connected to the power supply unit by a cable (370).

[0186] The structure for organizing and fixing the cable (370) is described later in Fig. 12. Of course, as another example, the second connector (300) may be coupled to the case (610), and the cable (370) connecting the power supply and the connector may be located inside the case (610).

[0187] The storage container (600) can be removed or placed on the shelf (9).

[0188] Below, the structure in which the storage container (600) is placed on the shelf (9) is described in detail.

[0189] A storage container (600) can be placed on a shelf (9) by a placement unit. The storage container (600) is heavy on its own, but becomes even heavier when food is stored inside, so a structure that allows it to be placed stably on the shelf is required.

[0190] For example, the mounting unit can be mounted on the shelf by being hung on the rear end of the front end of the shelf. The mounting unit can have a structure that restricts the forward and backward and up and down movement of the storage container (600) within the storage space (12, 13) and allows the left and right movement.

[0191] Specifically, the mounting unit may include a mounting plate (641), a first fixing part (642), and a second fixing part (700).

[0192] In particular, referring to FIG. 8, a mounting plate (641) is coupled to a case (610). The mounting plate (641) is coupled to the top of the case (610) to support the case (610). The mounting plate (641) may have a size and shape corresponding to the upper surface of the case (610).

[0193] The first fixing member (642) fixes one end of the mounting plate (641) to one end of the shelf. The first fixing member (642) may be a separate member from the mounting plate (641) or may be formed integrally with it.

[0194] For example, the first fixing portion (642) may define a space in which one end of the mounting plate (641) is bent and one end of the shelf is inserted. Specifically, the first fixing portion (642) may be formed such that the front end of the mounting plate (641) is bent upward and then bent back again. A grip portion (643) that enhances gripping force may be arranged on the outer surface of the first fixing portion (642).

[0195] That is, the first fixed part (642) may have a structure in which the upper, lower, and front sides are blocked, and the rear and both sides are open.

[0196] The second fixing member (700) fixes one end of the mounting plate (641) to one end of the shelf. The first fixing member (642) may be a separate member from the mounting plate (641) or may be formed integrally.

[0197] For example, the second fixed part (700) is formed separately from the mounting plate (641), and the second fixed part (700) can define a space into which the other end of the mounting plate (641) is inserted and a space into which the other end of the shelf (9) is inserted.

[0198] Specifically, the second fixed member (700) includes a first mounting member (710), a second mounting member (720), a third mounting member (730), and a connecting member (740).

[0199] The first mounting member (710) defines a surface parallel to the first direction. The second mounting member (720) faces the first mounting member (710) and defines an interpolated space (713) in which a shelf (9) is inserted between the first mounting members (710). The second mounting member (720) defines a surface parallel to the first mounting member (710).

[0200] The third support member (730) is spaced apart from the second support member (720) and supports the rear end of the support plate (641). A support space (723) in which a portion of the support plate (641) is positioned can be defined between the third support member (730) and the second support member (720).

[0201] The connecting member (740) can connect one end of the first mounting member (710), the second mounting member (720), and the third mounting member (730). Specifically, the connecting member (740) can connect the rear end of the first mounting member (710), the rear end of the second mounting member (720), and the rear end of the third mounting member (730).

[0202] The interpolation space (713) may be an open space in the forward, leftward, and rightward directions. Accordingly, when the rear end of the shelf (9) is inserted into the interpolation space (713), the movement of the holder (700) in the up-down and forward-backward directions is restricted, and the movement of the holder (700) in the left-right direction is permitted.

[0203] The connecting member (740) is positioned between the shelf (9) and the rear surface (123) of the storage space (12, 13), so that the forward movement of the second fixing member (700) is limited by the shelf (9), and the rearward movement of the second fixing member (700) is limited by the rear surface (123) of the storage space (12, 13).

[0204] If the first fixing part (642) is formed integrally with the mounting plate (641) and the second fixing part (700) is formed as a separate part from the mounting plate (641), the rear end of the mounting plate (641) can be supported by the second fixing part (700) fitted to the rear end of the shelf, and the front end of the mounting plate (641) can be raised so that the first fixing part (642) is caught on the front end of the shelf. Accordingly, it becomes easy for a user to mount a storage container (600) on the shelf.

[0205] When the drawer (620) closes the opening (611) of the case (610), negative pressure is applied to the storage space (A) of the case (610), making it difficult for the drawer (620) to be withdrawn from the case (610).

[0206] Accordingly, one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an opening unit (630) to assist in the initial movement of the drawer (620).

[0207] An opening unit (630) is installed in the drawer (620) and can optionally separate the drawer (620) from the case (610).

[0208] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an open unit (630) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0209] Referring to FIG. 10, the opening unit (630) may include a lever (631), a rack gear (632), a pinion gear (636), and a push rack (633).

[0210] When the lever (631) moves, the movement of the lever (631) is transmitted to the push rack (633), causing the push rack (633) to move, and the push rack (633) pushes the case (610) away from the drawer (620) to relieve the negative pressure in the storage space (A).

[0211] The lever (631) may be installed to slide on the drawer (620). Specifically, a portion of the lever (631) may be exposed on the front side of the front portion (622, 624). Preferably, a space for the user's hand to enter may be formed between the lower end of the lever (631) and the front portion (622, 624).

[0212] The drawer (620) may further include a lever guide (635) that guides the lever (631). The lever guide (635) guides the lever (631) to move forward and backward in the front part (622, 624).

[0213] Specifically, the lever guide (635) is installed on the front part (622, 624) and guides one end of the lever (631).

[0214] The rack gear (632) is connected to the lever (631). The rack gear (632) is connected to the other end of the lever (631). The rack gear (632) extends forward and backward, and a gear is formed on the lower surface of the rack gear (632).

[0215] The pinion gear (636) meshes with the rack gear (632) and can be rotatably installed in the drawer (620). The pinion gear (636) can be rotatably installed in the front portion (622, 624). Preferably, the pinion gear (636) is rotatably installed in the rack guide described below.

[0216] The push rack (633) moves by receiving the movement of the lever (631) and pushes the case (610). The push rack (633) meshes with the pinion gear (636). A gear is formed on the upper surface of the push rack (633) and meshes with the pinion gear (636).

[0217] A portion of the push rack (633) may be exposed at the bottom of the front portion (622, 624) or may penetrate the front portion (622, 624) and be exposed at the rear of the front portion (622, 624).

[0218] The open unit (630) may further include a rack guide. The rack guide may be installed in the drawer (620) to guide the push rack (633) and the rack gear (632). Specifically, the rack guide is installed in the front portion (622, 624).

[0219] Below, the operation of the open unit (630) is described.

[0220] Fig. 11a is a drawing showing the operation of the opening unit (630) of Fig. 10, and Fig. 11b is a drawing showing the operation of the opening unit (630) of Fig. 10.

[0221] Referring to FIG. 11a, when the front part (622, 624) and the case (610) come into contact and negative pressure is formed inside the case (610), the storage space (A) of the case (610) becomes sealed.

[0222] Referring to FIG. 11b, when the lever (631) is moved in one direction, the rack gear (632) moves in the same direction as the lever (631), the pinion gear (636) is rotated by the movement of the rack gear (632), and the rotational force of the pinion gear (636) moves the push rack (633) in the opposite direction to the one direction.

[0223] The push rack (633) pushes the case (610) away from the front (622, 624). Accordingly, the negative pressure in the storage space (A) of the case (610) is relieved, and the drawer (620) can be easily taken out of the case (610).

[0224]

[0225] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating a storage container (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0226] Referring to FIG. 12, the second connector (300) may have a head (330) and a cable (370) positioned outside the case (610). In order to effectively organize the cable (370) while freely moving the position of the storage container (600), the second connector (300) may further include a wire fixing portion (618) and a wire coupling portion (617).

[0227] The wire fixing member (618) may be coupled to the cable (370). Specifically, the wire fixing member (618) may include a ferromagnetic material in a ring shape that surrounds the cable (370). The wire fixing member (618) may allow the cable (370) to move in the longitudinal direction. The wire fixing member (618) may be made of a flexible material.

[0228] The wire coupling portion (617) can be coupled to the case (610) and exert a coupling force on the wire fixing portion (618). The wire coupling portion (617) can include a magnet. The wire coupling portion (617) is made of an elastic material, and the wire fixing portion (618) can be attached and detached.

[0229] The wire coupling portion (617) may be installed on the outer surface of the case (610). Preferably, the wire coupling portion (617) may be installed on the rear surface (161) of the case (610).

[0230] By adjusting the position of the wire fixing member (618), the distance between the second connector (300) and the case (610) can be adjusted, and the length of the cable (370) exposed to the outside can be reduced.

[0231] As another example, the wire joint (617) may have a structure that has elasticity and into which the cable (370) is inserted.

[0232]

[0233] FIG. 13a is a drawing illustrating a first connector (200) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 13b is a drawing illustrating the first connector (200) illustrated in FIG. 13a moved from the front to the rear.

[0234] Referring to FIGS. 13a and 13b, a first connector (200') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure has a difference from the first connector (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in that it slides on the cabinet (10). Hereinafter, differences from the first connector (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be mainly described, and configurations without special description will be considered to be the same as those of FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0235] The first connector (200') can be installed to slide forward and backward on the side (122) of the cabinet (10). When the first connector (200') is slid forward and backward, the first connector (200') moves forward and backward in the storage space (12, 13), so that when a user connects an additional device (600), the user can connect it near the door (20) and move the first connector (200') to the dead zone.

[0236] Therefore, the user has the advantage of being able to adjust the position of the first connector (200') according to the user's convenience and usage environment.

[0237] The inner case (610) (102) may include a sliding hole (102a) in which the first connector (200') is installed to slide and provides a movement mechanism for the first connector (200'). For example, the length of the sliding hole (102a) in the front-back direction may be longer than the vertical length of the sliding hole (102a).

[0238] Below, the structure in which the first connector (200') slides is described in detail.

[0239] Figure 13c is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14c-14c' of Figure 13b.

[0240] Referring to FIG. 13c, another embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a slider (124) installed on the side (122) to guide the first connector (200') to slide in the forward and backward direction.

[0241] The slider (124) may be a groove shape that is open in the forward and backward directions and closed in the left and right directions. For example, the slider (124) may be formed integrally with the inner case (610) (102). In another example, the slider (124) may be formed separately from the inner case (610) (102).

[0242] The slider (124) may include a first slider (124a) and a second slider (124b). A sliding hole (102a) is positioned between the first slider (124a) and the second slider (124b). The first slider (124a) may be positioned above the sliding hole (102a), and the second slider (124b) may be positioned below the sliding hole (102a).

[0243] The first connector (200') may further include a slide projection (270) inserted into the slider (124). The slide projection (270) may include a first slide projection (270a) that is slidably coupled to the first slider (124a) and a second slide projection (270b) that is slidably coupled to the second slider (124b).

[0244] Additionally, the first connector (200') may further include a slide cover (280) to cover the insulating material (103) that is exposed without being covered by the first connector (200') when the first connector (200') is moved.

[0245] The slide cover (280) can cover the sliding hole (102a) when the first connector (200') is moved.

[0246]

[0247] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a storage container (600') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0248] Referring to FIG. 14, a storage container (600') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the embodiment of FIG. 6 in the location of the second connector (300). Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment of FIG. 6 will be mainly described, and configurations without special descriptions will be considered to be identical to the embodiment of FIG. 6.

[0249] The second connector (300') may be installed on one side of the case (610). Specifically, the second connector (300') may be installed so as to protrude outward from one side of the case (610). At this time, the cable (370) of the second connector (300') may be located inside the case (610). As another example, the second connector (300') may be directly connected to a power supply.

[0250]

[0251] FIG. 15 is a block diagram schematically showing the connection status of the main components of a refrigerator (1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 16 is a flowchart sequentially showing the operation of the refrigerator (1) according to the installation of an additional device (600).

[0252] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, when power is supplied to the refrigerator (1), the operation of the refrigerator (1) may begin as the driving unit (16), which is composed of components for cooling such as a compressor of the refrigerator (1), is driven. At this time, the control unit (15) controls the operation of the driving unit (16) according to the operation input from the operation unit (17). In addition, the control unit (15) controls the operation of the driving unit (16) so that the temperature of the storage space (12, 13) detected by the temperature sensor (18) is maintained at a set temperature, and such normal operation may be referred to as general operation. (S100)

[0253] While normal operation is in progress, the user can mount an additional device (600) to the first connector (200) of the refrigerator (1) as needed.

[0254] When the additional device (600) is mounted and the first connection terminal (211) and the second connection terminal (310) are connected to each other, the control unit (15) can recognize the additional device (600).

[0255] By simply mounting the additional device (600) to the first connector (200), power is supplied to the additional device (600), and the additional device (600) and the control unit (15) are connected in a communicable state, so that information of the additional device (600) can be recognized.

[0256] At this time, a program for driving an additional device (600) may be stored in the control unit (15).

[0257] And, if the refrigerator (1) is equipped with a communication unit (19) and has a structure capable of communicating with the outside, a program for operating an additional device (600) can be received and installed from a remote location. And, when an additional device (600) is released through periodic communication with a remote location, the program for operating the additional device (600) can be updated in the control unit (15) regardless of whether the additional device (600) is mounted. Of course, the program for operating the additional device (600) can be built into the additional device (600) and the program for operating the additional device (600) can be installed in the control unit (15) along with the mounting of the additional device (600). (S220)

[0258] When the installation and recognition of the additional device (600) are completed, the control unit (15) activates a corresponding program for the operation of the additional device (600). That is, among the programs of various additional devices (600) installed in the control unit (15), the information of the actually installed additional device (600) is recognized, and the corresponding program is activated accordingly. (S230)

[0259] After the mounting and recognition of the additional device (600) is completed and the corresponding program for driving the additional device (600) is activated, the normal recognition status of the additional device (600) can be guided.

[0260] For example, the output unit (141) or the remote user terminal can be notified of the completion of normal recognition of the additional device (600) and the waiting state for the operation of the additional device (600). (S240)

[0261] Meanwhile, once normal mounting and recognition of the additional device (600) are completed, the additional device (600) can operate according to the set corresponding program. This may vary depending on the type of additional device (600), but if the corresponding program is normally activated, the additional device (600) will perform the set operation along with the recognition of the additional device (600).

[0262] Of course, the user may set and operate the operation of the additional device (600), and when the corresponding program is activated, the user may set the operation of the additional device (600) through the operation of the control unit (17) or the user terminal. (S250)

[0263] While the operation of the additional device (600) is performed by the corresponding program, the control unit (15) controls the driving unit (16) to continue performing normal operation. Of course, depending on the type and operation of the additional device (600), other operations dependent on or modified by the additional device (600) other than normal operation may be performed. (S120)

[0264] Meanwhile, in the process of mounting the additional device (600), if the additional device (600) is not mounted normally in the first connector (200) or the additional device (600) is not recognized normally due to another problem, the non-recognition status of the additional device (600) is notified.

[0265] That is, the control unit (15) can notify the user through the output unit (141) or the user terminal that there is a problem with the mounting or recognition of the additional device (600). At this time, the control unit (15) can analyze which part of the mounting or recognition of the additional device (600) caused the problem and notify the user of the problem, so that the user can take appropriate action to resolve the problem.

[0266] The door sensor (29) detects whether the door is open or closed and provides this to the control unit (15). The door sensor (29) may include a switch sensor.

[0267] The pressure sensor (654) detects the pressure in the storage space (A) of the case (610) and provides it to the control unit (15).

[0268] The sealing sensor (691) detects whether the opening (611) of the case (610) is sealed by the drawer (620). The sealing sensor may be a switch sensor or a distance sensor installed on the front (622, 624) or on the edge of the opening (611) of the case (610).

[0269] The control unit (15) can control the storage container (600) according to the opening and closing of the door, whether the case (610) is sealed, and the pressure of the storage space (A) of the case (610). Here, the sealing of the case (610) means that the drawer (620) closes the opening (611) of the case (610).

[0270] Specifically, the control unit (15) can control at least one of the vacuum pump (651) and the opening / closing valve (653) depending on whether the door is opened or closed, whether the drawer (620) is opened or closed, and the pressure of the storage space (A).

[0271] Therefore, the interior of the storage container (600) can be maintained at negative pressure in various environments.

[0272]

[0273] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a storage container (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0274] Referring to FIG. 17, a method for controlling a storage container (600) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is such that when the second connector (300) of the storage container (600) is connected to the first connector (200), the control unit (15) recognizes the storage container (600) and supplies power to the storage container (600) (S10).

[0275] Thereafter, the control unit (15) determines whether the storage space (A) of the case (610) is sealed (S20). The control unit (15) determines whether the storage space (A) of the case (610) is sealed based on the signal input from the sealing sensor (691).

[0276] If the control unit (15) determines that the storage space (A) is sealed, it determines whether the refrigerator door is closed (S30). The control unit (15) determines whether the refrigerator door is closed based on the signal input from the door sensor (29).

[0277] Afterwards, if the control unit (15) determines that the refrigerator door is closed, it opens the opening / closing valve (653) (S40) and turns on the vacuum pump (651) (S50).

[0278] Thereafter, the control unit (15) determines whether the pressure in the storage space (A) has reached the target pressure (S60). The control unit (15) determines whether the pressure in the storage space (A) has reached the target pressure based on the signal input from the pressure sensor (654r7000).

[0279] Thereafter, if the control unit (15) determines that the pressure in the storage space (A) has reached the target pressure, it closes the opening / closing valve (653) (S10). At this time, the control unit (15) can turn off the vacuum pump (651).

[0280] Steps S40 to S70 may be repeated periodically.

[0281]

[0282] Although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains without departing from the gist of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present disclosure.

[0283] The present disclosure may be implemented in various forms and modifications, and the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes elements of the claims of the present disclosure, it should be considered to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0284] Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

[0285] For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

[0286] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of this disclosure should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the scope of equivalents of this disclosure are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

1. A case installed in a storage space and defining a storage space with an opening formed on one side; A drawer that opens and closes the storage space of the above case; A vacuum pump that forms a negative pressure in the above storage space; A storage container comprising a second connector coupled to the first connector formed in the storage space to supply power to a vacuum pump.

2. In paragraph 1, The second connector is a storage container that receives a control signal for controlling the vacuum pump from the first connector.

3. In paragraph 1, The above case is, A storage vessel further comprising a machine room accommodating the vacuum pump.

4. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a suction pipe connecting the vacuum pump and the storage space, The above case is, A suction hole into which the above suction tube is inserted, A storage container further comprising a suction cover covering the suction hole and connecting the suction hole and the receiving space.

5. In paragraph 4, The above suction cover, A cover part arranged to overlap the above suction hole in one direction, It includes a support part that connects the cover part and the case and separates the cover part from the suction hole, A storage container in which the above suction hole is located on a surface facing the opening in the case.

6. In paragraph 1, The above drawer is, A receiving section that is inserted into the interior of the case and forms a receiving space in which stored items are received; A storage container including a front portion arranged at one end of the receiving portion and in contact with the edge of the opening to seal the case.

7. In paragraph 1, Further comprising an opening unit installed in the drawer and optionally separating the drawer from the case, The above open unit is, A lever installed to slide on the above drawer; A rack gear connected to the above lever; A pinion gear meshed with the above rack gear and rotatably installed in the drawer; and A storage container including a push rack meshed with the pinion gear.

8. In paragraph 7, A storage container that pushes the case while the push rack moves in the opposite direction to the one direction when the lever is moved in one direction.

9. In paragraph 7, The above open unit is, A storage container further comprising a rack guide installed in the drawer and guiding the push rack and the rack gear.

10. In paragraph 1, It further includes shelves that divide the storage space into upper and lower sections, The above case is a storage container that is removable from the above shelf.

11. In paragraph 10, Further comprising a mounting unit for mounting the case on the shelf, The above-mentioned mounting unit is, A mounting plate coupled to the above case; A first fixing member that fixes one end of the above-mentioned mounting plate to one end of the above-mentioned shelf; A storage container including a second fixing member that fixes the other end of the above-mentioned mounting plate and the other end of the above-mentioned shelf.

12. In paragraph 11, The above first fixed part is, One end of the above mounting plate is banded to define a space into which one end of the shelf is inserted, The above second fixed part is, A storage container defining a space into which the other end of the above-mentioned mounting plate is inserted and a space into which the other end of the above-mentioned shelf is inserted.

13. In paragraph 1, The above second connector, A head coupled with the first connector; A storage container including a cable connected to the head and electrically connected to the power supply.

14. In paragraph 13, The above second connector, A wire fixing part that is connected to the above cable, A storage container comprising a wire coupling portion coupled to the case and exerting a coupling force on the wire fixing portion.

15. Cabinets forming storage space; A door for opening and closing the above storage space; Shelves dividing the above storage space; and Including a storage container placed in the above storage space, The above storage container, A case installed in a storage space and defining a storage space with an opening formed on one side; A drawer that opens and closes the storage space of the above case; A vacuum pump that forms a negative pressure in the above storage space; A second connector is formed in the storage space and is coupled to the first connector to supply power to the vacuum pump, The above storage container is a refrigerator that is removable from the above shelf.

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