Additional device and refrigerator including same

Abstract

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an additional device comprises: an operation unit for performing an additional operation; a power supply unit for providing power to the operation unit; a casing for accommodating the operation unit and the power supply unit and installed in a storage space; and an auxiliary unit detachably attached to the casing to perform an auxiliary operation of the operation unit, wherein the auxiliary unit is electrically connected to the power supply unit when coupled to the casing, and a portion of the auxiliary unit is positioned outside the casing.

Description

Additional devices and refrigerators containing them

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an additional device and a refrigerator including the same, and more particularly, to an additional device and a refrigerator including the same, which can remove odors inside a refrigerator without significantly sacrificing the storage space inside the refrigerator and the insulation of the walls, and which can be further combined with the additional device.

[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] For example, a deodorizing device may be installed inside the refrigerator to remove odors from the inside. A camera may be installed inside the refrigerator to monitor the food inside. Various sensors may also be installed to monitor the storage conditions of food stored inside the refrigerator.

[0005] Patent Document 1 discloses a refrigerator having a camera installed on the upper surface of the refrigerator's inner side to photograph the interior space.

[0006] However, refrigerators with this type of structure have a problem: the camera is fixed to the refrigerator, making it difficult to position it in a desired location. Furthermore, the camera is installed even when it's not needed, increasing the product price and hindering the product lineup's diversity.

[0007] Patent Document 2 relates to a refrigerator deodorizing device, in which an anode and a cathode are installed inside to generate low-temperature plasma when voltage is applied, and the device is configured to decompose odorous substances through plasma discharge.

[0008] However, in the case of patent document 2, if food is piled up, there is a possibility that the plasma deodorizing device placed in the suction port may be blocked, which may lead to a decrease in suction performance and a decrease in deodorizing performance. In addition, although the voltage applied to the deodorizing device is 4000 volts, it is placed in a location accessible to consumers, which may cause a risk of electric shock to consumers. In addition, ozone is generated, which may decrease pulse and blood pressure, and cause symptoms such as lethargy, dizziness, headache, and fatigue.

[0009]

[0010] [Prior Art Literature]

[0011] [Patent Document]

[0012] (Patent Document 0001) Republic of Korea Publication Patent No. 10-2016-0089725

[0013] (Patent Document 0002) Republic of Korea Public Utility Model No. 20-0231011

[0014] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator including a connector installed in a storage space of a refrigerator, a module having various functions that can be easily mounted on the connector, and a detachable additional device having various functions.

[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an additional device that prevents an auxiliary device terminal connected to a terminal of an additional device installed inside the additional device from being damaged or oxidized when not in use, and a refrigerator including the same.

[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an additional device and a refrigerator including the same, in which an auxiliary device terminal installed inside the additional device and a terminal installed in the additional device are accurately connected, easily disconnected, and the additional device is easily connected when the casing of the additional device is connected.

[0017] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an additional device 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.

[0018] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an additional device and a refrigerator including the same, which can effectively filter the air in a storage space when the additional device is installed close to a cabinet of the refrigerator without obstructing the flow of cold air in the refrigerator, and the additional device is placed in the dead zone of the storage space, utilizing the dead zone of the storage space below the shelf, the rear of the storage space, and the side of the storage space.

[0019] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an additional device and a refrigerator including the same, which includes a sensor installed at a location for accurately measuring odor particles in air drawn into the additional device.

[0020] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an additional device 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 additional device.

[0021] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an additional device 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.

[0022] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an additional device and a refrigerator including the same, which can control the fan and indicator of the additional device depending on the degree of contamination inside the refrigerator and whether the door is open.

[0023] 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 an additional device, the user can connect it near the door and move the additional device to the dead zone.

[0024] 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.

[0025] An additional device and a refrigerator according to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose are characterized in that an auxiliary unit is coupled to an additional device installed in a refrigerator and is supplied with power from the additional device.

[0026] Specifically, an additional device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an operating unit that performs an additional operation, a power supply unit that provides power to the operating unit, a casing that accommodates the operating unit and the power supply unit and is installed in a storage space, and an auxiliary unit that is detachably attached to the casing and performs an auxiliary operation of the operating unit, wherein the auxiliary unit is electrically connected to the power supply unit when coupled to the casing, and a portion of the auxiliary unit is positioned outside the casing.

[0027] The auxiliary unit may include a sensor for detecting the state of the storage space, a sensor connector for accommodating the sensor and coupling the sensor case to the casing, and a sensing terminal connected to the power supply.

[0028] The power supply unit may further include an auxiliary device terminal positioned inside the casing and selectively contacting the sensing terminal.

[0029] The above sensor connector can be installed in the casing so as to be movable in one direction.

[0030] The sensor connector may include a flange on which the sensing terminal is formed, and a sensor arm that connects the flange and the sensor case at a distance and has a width smaller than the flange.

[0031] The above casing may further include a sensor coupling hole into which the sensor arm is inserted.

[0032] The first direction length of the sensor coupling hole is longer than the second direction length of the sensor coupling hole intersecting the first direction, and the sensor arm can slide in the first direction.

[0033] One side of the flange where the sensing terminal is exposed and one side of the power supply where the auxiliary device terminal is exposed can be arranged parallel to the first direction.

[0034] The sensor case further includes a sensor hole that connects the inside and the outside of the sensor case, and the sensor hole can be located on one side of the sensor case that is located farthest from the casing.

[0035] Additionally, the present disclosure may further include a sensor hole cap that is coupled to the casing at one end and closes the sensor coupling hole by elastic force.

[0036] The above sensor hole cap can be banded by the flange to open the sensor coupling hole when the auxiliary unit is coupled to the casing.

[0037] The casing includes a first casing defining an internal space open in one direction and including an exhaust port through which air is discharged, and a second casing coupled to the first casing and defining an intake port communicating with the internal space, and the sensor coupling hole can be defined by the coupling of the first casing and the second casing.

[0038] The first casing may further include a first sensor groove defining a portion of the sensor coupling hole, and the second casing may further include a second sensor groove defining another portion of the sensor coupling hole.

[0039] Additionally, the present disclosure may further include a second connector coupled to the first connector formed in the storage space to supply power to the power unit.

[0040] The above suction unit and the above discharge unit may be arranged to face each other.

[0041] The above suction portion may be formed on another side intersecting the side on which the discharge portion is formed.

[0042] The above casing further includes a holder coupling portion to which a holder that is hung on the storage space is coupled, the holder coupling portion is located at the upper end of the casing, and the sensor coupling hole can be located at the lower end of the casing.

[0043] The above-mentioned operating unit may include a deodorizing filter and a fan for filtering air within the storage space, and the casing may include a third casing that supports the deodorizing filter and is installed in the internal space of the first casing to define a space between the first casing and the air in which the flange moves.

[0044] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, another additional device comprises a deodorizing filter for filtering odor particles within a storage space, a casing having the deodorizing filter disposed therein and defining a path through which air from the storage space passes through the deodorizing filter and is discharged back into the storage space, a fan disposed in the path of the casing, and a power supply unit for providing power to the fan and including an auxiliary device terminal, the power supply unit being located within the casing, wherein the casing further comprises a device coupling portion for coupling an auxiliary unit to the casing, the device coupling portion being characterized in that when the auxiliary unit is coupled to the casing, a terminal of the auxiliary unit is restrained to be in contact with the auxiliary device terminal.

[0045] The device coupling portion is a hole penetrating the casing, a length of the device coupling portion in a first direction is longer than a length in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and one side of the power supply unit where the auxiliary device terminal is exposed can be arranged parallel to the first direction.

[0046] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0047] The present disclosure has the advantage of being able to easily mount modules with various functions on connectors installed in the storage space of a refrigerator, and to detachably install auxiliary units with various functions on additional devices installed, so that modules and additional devices with various functions can be driven inside the refrigerator by utilizing the main power of the refrigerator without the need for a separate power source.

[0048] In addition, the present disclosure further includes an auxiliary device terminal installed inside an additional device, a coupling hole formed in a case of the additional device to couple the auxiliary unit, and a cap that closes the coupling hole by elastic force in the case, thereby preventing the auxiliary device terminal from being damaged or oxidized when not in use and preventing moisture from entering the interior of the additional device.

[0049] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage that an auxiliary device terminal is arranged inside an additional device, a coupling hole is formed in a case of the additional device to couple the auxiliary unit, the auxiliary unit is inserted into the coupling hole and slides in one direction to come into contact with the auxiliary device terminal, so that the auxiliary unit can be easily coupled to the additional device, the electrical connection between the auxiliary unit and the auxiliary device terminal can be firmly established, and the terminal of the auxiliary unit and the auxiliary device terminal can be easily aligned.

[0050] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage that the case of the additional device is formed by combining two members, and the joint portion where the auxiliary unit is combined is a hole defined when the two cases are combined, so that the auxiliary unit can be easily mounted when assembling the additional device, and the auxiliary unit is arranged on the outside of the additional device, so that when the auxiliary unit senses the state of the interior, accurate sensing is possible regardless of whether the additional device is in operation.

[0051] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of not requiring a separate power source when placing additional devices inside the refrigerator, as the connector of the additional device is connected to the connector installed in the storage space of the refrigerator and operates by receiving the main power of the refrigerator, and of allowing various additional devices with various functions to be easily changed and installed.

[0052] 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.

[0053] In addition, the present disclosure has a structure in which an additional device has a hexahedral shape, a suction portion is formed on one side of the hexahedron, and a discharge portion is formed on the other side that is in contact with one side of the hexahedron and intersects with the hexahedron, and when the additional device is placed under a shelf, which is a dead zone of a storage space of a built-in storage unit, at the rear of the storage space, and adjacent to the side of the storage space, if the side of the additional device where the suction portion and discharge portion are not formed is placed in close contact with the side and rear of the storage space, the space occupied by the additional device is reduced, the dead zone is maximized, and the suction portion and discharge portion are exposed to the storage space, so there is an advantage of not obstructing the air flow of the additional device.

[0054] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of forming a vertically elongated mounting space on the side of the storage space, arranging magnets respectively below and above the mounting space, thereby reducing the space occupied by the connector, and effectively securing the additional device by increasing the vertical securing force when the additional device is supported by the connector.

[0055] 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 additional device is moved, and being able to easily organize the power cable, since a wire fixing part for fixing the power cable to the casing of the additional device is installed.

[0056] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of being able to easily secure the additional device in a position adjacent to the bottom of the shelf, which is a dead zone, and adjacent to the rear of the storage space, by including a stand that is fitted to the rear end of the refrigerator's front panel and is fitted to the case of the additional device, and that the additional device can be easily moved left and right while mounted on the shelf.

[0057] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of improving user convenience and effectively utilizing storage space, as the first connector moves forward and backward in the cabinet, so that when a user connects an additional device, he or she can connect it near the door and move the additional device to the dead zone.

[0058] 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 that help consumer convenience by linking it with the opening of the refrigerator door and the degree of contamination inside the refrigerator.

[0059] 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.

[0060] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the open door portion of the refrigerator illustrated in Figure 1.

[0062] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a second connector of an additional device coupled to the first connector illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0063] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4' of Figure 3.

[0064] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating an additional device installed in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the additional device illustrated in Figure 5.

[0066] Figure 7 is a front view of the additional device illustrated in Figure 5.

[0067] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the additional device illustrated in Figure 5.

[0068] Figure 9a is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9a-9a' of Figure 6.

[0069] Figure 9b is an exploded view of Figure 9a.

[0070] FIG. 9c is a perspective view of an auxiliary unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] FIG. 9d is a drawing illustrating an auxiliary device terminal and a sensing terminal connected according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 9e is a drawing illustrating an auxiliary device terminal and a sensing terminal disconnected according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a stand according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the stand of Figure 10 mounting an additional device on a shelf.

[0075] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a stand with a shelf installed according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG. 13 is a rear view of an additional device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 14a is a drawing illustrating a first connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] Figure 14b is a drawing showing the first connector illustrated in Figure 14a moved from the front to the rear.

[0079] Figure 14c is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14c-14c' of Figure 14b.

[0080] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an additional device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an additional device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] FIG. 17 is a block diagram schematically showing the connection status of major components of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] Figure 18 is a flowchart sequentially showing the operation of the refrigerator according to the installation of the above additional device.

[0084] FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an additional device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085]

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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).

[0095] 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).

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] In addition, a control unit (15) for controlling the overall operation of the refrigerator (1) may be formed on the upper surface of the cabinet (10). The control unit (15) may control the operation of the refrigerator (1) as well as the operation of an additional device (600) to be described below.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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).

[0104] 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).

[0105] 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.

[0106]

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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 additional device (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 an auxiliary unit that senses various conditions inside the storage space (12, 13).

[0111] At this time, the first connector (200) can be configured to be automatically recognized and operable when an additional device (600) is mounted.

[0112] 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).

[0113] 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).

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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).

[0116] 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).

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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).

[0119] 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).

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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).

[0122] 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).

[0123] 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).

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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 in the mounting space (210) that is furthest from the exposed surface (230) of the body (220).

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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).

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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).

[0132] 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).

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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).

[0135] 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.

[0136]

[0137] 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 deodorizing module (600), which is one of the additional devices, via a cable (370), or may be coupled to the casing of the additional device (600).

[0138] 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).

[0139] 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).

[0140] 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).

[0141] 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)).

[0142] Preferably, the head (330) may have a size and shape corresponding to the exposed surface (230).

[0143] 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).

[0144] 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).

[0145] The second connection terminal (310) can be positioned at the furthest position from the head (330) in the insertion portion (320).

[0146] 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).

[0147] 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).

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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).

[0150] 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 auxiliary unit (600) to be mounted.

[0151]

[0152] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an auxiliary unit (600) installed in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the auxiliary unit (600) shown in FIG. 5, and FIG. 7 is a front view of the auxiliary unit (600) shown in FIG. 5.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 5, an auxiliary unit (600) is positioned within the storage space (12, 13) to perform additional operations desired by the user. For example, the auxiliary unit (600) may be a deodorizing module (600) that separates odor particles from the air in the storage space (12, 13) and supplies the separated air back to the storage space (12, 13). Hereinafter, a description will be given focusing on the deodorizing module, which is an example of an auxiliary unit.

[0154] For example, the deodorizing module (600) has a hexahedral shape, and has a structure in which a suction part (651) is formed on one side of the hexahedron, and a discharge part (611) is formed on the other side that is in contact with and intersects one side of the hexahedron. When the deodorizing module (600) is placed below the shelf (9), which is a dead zone of the storage space (12, 13) of the internal storage, and adjacent to the rear of the storage space (12, 13) and the side of the storage space (12, 13), the side of the deodorizing module (600) where the suction part (651) and the discharge part (611) are not formed is placed in close contact with the side (122) and the rear (123) of the storage space (12, 13).

[0155] That is, the front, bottom and left side of the deodorization module (600) are exposed to the storage space (12, 13), and the right side, top and back side of the deodorization module (600) are arranged in contact with or adjacent to the side (122), shelf (9) and back side (123).

[0156] Accordingly, the space occupied by the deodorizing module (600) is reduced, the dead zone is utilized to the maximum extent, and the suction part (651) and the discharge part (611) are exposed to the storage space (12, 13), so there is an advantage of not obstructing the air flow of the deodorizing module (600).

[0157] The deodorizing module (600) can be equipped with a detachable auxiliary unit (800). The auxiliary unit (800) operates separately from the auxiliary unit. The auxiliary unit (800) can sense at least one of the temperature, humidity, and concentration of odor particles within the chamber. The auxiliary unit (800) can be powered by the deodorizing module (600).

[0158] The auxiliary unit (800) is electrically connected to the power supply, and a portion of it may be located outside the casing (601).

[0159] For example, the auxiliary unit (800) may be inserted into a hole formed in the deodorization module (600) and coupled, or a protrusion protruding from the deodorization module (600) may be inserted into the auxiliary unit (800) and coupled. However, in the case of such a simple insertion method, it is difficult to firmly couple the auxiliary unit (800), and the portion where the power is connected may be exposed to the outside, which may cause problems such as oxidation.

[0160]

[0161] Hereinafter, the structure of the deodorization module (600) and the auxiliary unit (800) and the combined structure of the two are described in detail to firmly connect the deodorization module (600) and the auxiliary unit (800) and to accurately connect the power.

[0162] Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the deodorization module (600) illustrated in Fig. 5, Fig. 9a is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9a-9a' of Fig. 6, and Fig. 9b is an exploded view of Fig. 9a.

[0163] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 9b, a deodorizing module (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a deodorizing filter (640), a casing (601), a fan (620), a power supply (690), and an auxiliary unit (800). In addition, the deodorizing module (600) may further include a second connector (300).

[0164] The casing (601) can define a space in which a deodorizing filter (640), a fan (620), and a power supply (690) are accommodated. The casing (601) can define a path through which air from the storage space (12, 13) passes through the deodorizing filter (640) and is discharged back into the storage space (12, 13).

[0165] The casing (601) can provide a space in which the auxiliary unit (800) is coupled. When the auxiliary unit (800) is coupled, the casing (601) accommodates a portion of the auxiliary unit (800) and allows the auxiliary unit (800) to slide in one direction.

[0166] For example, the casing (601) may have an overall hexahedral shape, and as described above, the front (660), the lower surface (640d), and the left side (640c) of the casing (601) are exposed to the storage space (12, 13), the right side (610b) of the casing (601) is disposed adjacent to and facing the side surface (122) of the storage space (12, 13), the upper surface (610a) of the casing (601) is disposed adjacent to and facing the shelf (9), and the rear surface (610b) of the casing (601) may be disposed adjacent to and facing the rear surface (123) of the storage space (12, 13).

[0167] The suction portion (651) may be formed on one side of the casing (601), and the discharge portion (611) may be formed on the other side intersecting with one side of the casing (601). Specifically, the suction portion (651) may be formed on the front side (660) of the casing (601), and the discharge portion (611) may be formed on the lower side (640d) or the left side (640c) intersecting with the front side (660) of the casing (601).

[0168] As another example, the suction portion (651) may be formed on one side of the casing (601), and the discharge portion (611) may be formed on the other side facing the one side of the casing (601).

[0169] In describing the deodorization module (600), the front is between the left and the bottom in FIG. 8 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (Ax) of the fan (620), and the rear is in the opposite direction of the front.

[0170] The casing (601) may be formed integrally, but may also be formed by combining a first casing (610) and a second casing (650) to accommodate the configuration within. When the first casing (610) and the second casing (650) are combined, a device coupling portion (616) to which the auxiliary unit (800) is coupled can be defined.

[0171] The device coupling portion (616) restrains the terminal of the auxiliary unit (800) to make contact with the auxiliary device terminal (693) when the auxiliary unit (800) is coupled to the casing (601).

[0172] The device coupling portion (616) may include a sensor coupling hole (616). The sensor coupling hole (616) may be a hole formed by penetrating the casing (601).

[0173] The first casing (610) houses a deodorizing filter (640), a fan (620), and a power supply (690) inside and defines an internal space (612). The first casing (610) may have a shape that is open in one direction.

[0174] Specifically, the first casing (610) may include an upper surface (610a) and a lower surface (640d) that are arranged to face each other, a left surface (640c) and a right surface (610b) that are arranged to face each other and connect both ends of the upper surface (610a) and the lower surface (640d), and a rear surface (610b) that connects the rear ends of the upper surface (610a) and the lower surface (640d) and the rear ends of the left surface (640c) and the right surface (610b), and defines a surface that intersects the rotation axis (Ax) of the fan (620). That is, the first casing (610) is opened forward.

[0175] The internal space (612) of the first casing (610) becomes a passage through which air flows. The discharge portion (611) is a space through which air in the internal space (612) is discharged to the outside. The discharge portion (611) may be formed on the lower surface (640d) or the left side (640c) of the first casing (610). The discharge portion (611) may also be formed on a grill that shields a portion of the discharge portion (611).

[0176] The first casing (610) further includes a first sensor groove (616a) defining a portion of a sensor coupling hole (616). The first sensor groove (616a) may be a groove in which the first casing (610) is opened forward. The first sensor groove (616a) may be formed by recessing the lower surface (640d) of the first casing (610).

[0177] The second casing (650) can be coupled to the front end of the first casing (610). The second casing (650) can define a suction portion (651) that communicates with the internal space (612).

[0178] Specifically, the second casing (650) may include an inner member (652) defining a suction portion (651), and an outer member (653) connected to the inner member (652) and surrounding the inner member (652).

[0179] The inner member (652) may have a ring shape that surrounds the rotation axis (Ax) of the fan (620). The outer member (653) may be connected to the outside of the inner member (652).

[0180] The outer member (653) may have a slope that tilts forward in the radial direction from the rotation axis (Ax) of the fan (620).

[0181] The second casing (650) further includes a second sensor groove (616b) defining another portion of the sensor coupling hole (616). The second sensor groove (616b) may be a groove in which the second casing (650) is opened toward the rear. The second sensor groove (616b) may be formed by a recessed lower surface of the second casing (650). Specifically, the second sensor groove (616b) may be formed in the outer member (653).

[0182] The length of one direction of the sensor coupling hole (616) may be longer than the other direction intersecting the one direction. Accordingly, the auxiliary unit (800) may be coupled to the sensor coupling hole (616) and slide in one direction. Specifically, the length of the sensor coupling hole (616) in the left-right direction may be longer than the length of the sensor coupling hole (616) in the front-back direction.

[0183] The auxiliary unit may further include a sensor hole cap (656) that closes the sensor coupling hole (616) when it is not in use. The sensor hole cap (656) has one end joined to the casing and can close the sensor coupling hole (616) by elastic force.

[0184] For example, the sensor hole cap (656) may include an opening / closing portion (657) that opens / closes the sensor coupling hole (616), and an elastic portion (658) that connects the opening / closing portion and the casing (601) and is elastically deformable.

[0185] The sensor hole cap (656) can be banded by the auxiliary unit (800) when the auxiliary unit (800) is coupled to the casing to open the sensor coupling hole (616).

[0186] The suction portion (651) of the second casing (650) may be exposed to the outside or may be shielded by the front cover (660).

[0187] The front cover (660) shields the suction portion (651) in the axial direction (Ax) of the fan (620) and can be spaced apart from the suction portion (651) in the axial direction (Ax). Specifically, the front cover (660) is positioned forwardly spaced apart from the suction portion (651), thereby defining a passage through which air flows between the second casing (650) and the front cover (660).

[0188] The front cover (660) may be positioned to overlap the suction portion (651) in the front-back direction. The front cover (660) may have a width greater than that of the suction portion (651). The front cover (660) may be positioned to completely overlap the inner member (652), and a portion of the front cover (660) may be positioned to overlap the outer member (653).

[0189] When the front cover (660) is positioned to overlap the inner member (652), the light of the indicator (670) described later, which is positioned on the inner member (652), is not directly emitted to the outside but is provided as indirect light.

[0190] The casing (601) may further include a cover support (662). The cover support (662) supports the front cover (660) apart from the second casing (650). Four cover support members (662) may be coupled to the corners of the front cover (660).

[0191]

[0192] The operating unit performs additional operations. For example, the operating unit may perform operations to filter the air in the storage space, provide additional cooling, lower the pressure inside the casing (601), or sense the state of the interior.

[0193] Specifically, the operating unit may include a fan (620) and a deodorizing filter (640).

[0194] The fan (620) is arranged in the flow path of the casing (601) to provide a fluid force to the air in the internal space of the casing (601). For example, the fan (620) can suck in air in the axial direction (Ax) and discharge the air in the radial direction of the axis. Specifically, the fan (620) can suck in air from the front of the casing (601) and discharge it to one side.

[0195] For example, the fan (620) may include a centrifugal fan (620). The centrifugal fan (620) may be accommodated in a fan housing (621). The fan housing (621) is accommodated in an internal space (612) of the first casing (610).

[0196] The fan housing (621) accommodates the fan (620) and guides air moved by the fan (620). The fan housing (621) may include a fan receiving portion (624) that accommodates the centrifugal fan (620), a fan intake portion (623) that is in communication with the fan receiving portion (624) and through which air is sucked and is opened in the axial direction (Ax) of the fan (620), and a fan discharge portion (625) that is in communication with the fan receiving portion (624) and through which air is discharged and is opened in a direction intersecting the axial direction (Ax) of the fan (620).

[0197] The fan suction portion (623) is positioned in front of the fan (620) and overlaps with the fan (620) in the front-back direction, and the fan discharge portion (625) can be positioned to overlap with the fan (620) in the left-right direction intersecting with the front-back direction. The fan discharge portion (625) can be connected to the discharge portion (611) formed in the first casing (610).

[0198] The deodorizing filter (640) filters out odor particles such as dioxin and other harmful gases within the storage space (12, 13). The deodorizing filter (640) may include carbon that adsorbs odor particles. The deodorizing filter (640) may include pores that contain odor particles. The deodorizing filter (640) may include carbon and a filter medium. The filter medium may be at least one of nonwoven fabric, urethane, corrugated, and activated carbon.

[0199] The deodorizing filter (640) can be accommodated in the first casing (610). The deodorizing filter (640) must be replaced by the user when the replacement cycle is reached. To prevent accidents caused by the fan (620) during replacement of the deodorizing filter (640) and for convenience of replacement, the casing (601) may further include a third casing (630).

[0200] The third casing (630) supports the deodorizing filter (640) and can be installed in the internal space of the first casing (610). The third casing (630) separates the space where the deodorizing filter (640) is positioned and the space where the fan (620) is positioned, and has a structure in which air passes between these two spaces but the user's hand cannot pass through.

[0201] For example, the third casing (630) may include a support (631) that surrounds the edge of the deodorizing filter (640), and a grill (633) that is connected to the support (631) and positioned between the deodorizing filter (640) and the fan (620). The grill (633) may have a size that allows air to pass through but does not allow fingers to pass through. The support (631) may have a ring shape that surrounds the deodorizing filter (640).

[0202] The third casing (630) may further include a supporter (632) that separates the support portion (631) from the first casing (610). The supporter (632) supports the support portion (631) so as to be separated from the first casing (610). The supporter (632) may extend from one end of the support portion (631) to the outside of the support portion (631). Specifically, the supporter (632) may extend downward from the rear end of the lower end of the support portion (631).

[0203] The supporter (632) provides a space where a part of the auxiliary unit (800) is positioned between the support member (631) and the first casing (610). That is, the supporter (632) provides a space where the flange of the auxiliary unit (800) is positioned between the support member (631) and the first casing (610) and moves in one direction.

[0204] The sensor coupling hole (616) can be positioned to overlap the space between the support member (631) and the first casing (610) in the vertical direction.

[0205] The supporter (632) can be positioned so as not to overlap with the suction part (651) in the front-rear direction. The supporter (632) can be positioned so as to overlap with the outer member (653) of the second casing (650) in the front-rear direction.

[0206] The power supply (690) is electrically connected to the second connector (300) and can provide power to the fan (620) and the sensor. In addition, the power supply (690) can control the fan (620). The power supply (690) can include a printed circuit board. The power supply (690) can be accommodated in the first casing (610).

[0207] The power supply unit (690) may further include an auxiliary device terminal (693) that provides power to the auxiliary unit (800). The auxiliary device terminal (693) may be electrically connected to the power supply unit (690). The auxiliary device terminal (693) may be selectively brought into contact with the sensing terminal. The auxiliary device terminal (693) may be installed through the third casing (630).

[0208] Specifically, one end of the auxiliary device terminal (693) is connected to the power supply unit (690), and the other end of the auxiliary device terminal (693) can penetrate the third casing (630) and be exposed to the front of the third casing (630).

[0209] More specifically, one end of the auxiliary device terminal (693) is connected to the power supply unit (690), and the other end of the auxiliary device terminal (693) can penetrate the supporter (632) and be exposed to the front of the supporter (632). The other end of the auxiliary device terminal (693) can protrude forward of the supporter (632).

[0210]

[0211] The deodorization module (600) may further include an indicator (670) that provides visually recognizable information. The indicator (670) provides light of various colors to inform the user of the state of the interior and the state of the deodorization module (600).

[0212] For example, the indicator (670) may be positioned between the front cover (660) and the fan (620). Specifically, the indicator (670) may include a light source (671) that generates light and a light guide portion (672) that guides the light generated from the light source (671).

[0213] The light source (671) is positioned at the rear of the third casing (630) and can be exposed to the front of the third casing (630) by penetrating the light guide (672) and the third casing (630). When the light source (671) is positioned at the rear of the third casing (630) and can be exposed to the front of the third casing (630) by penetrating the light guide (672) and the third casing (630), the light source (671) can be protected from external moisture and power can be easily supplied to the light source (671).

[0214] More specifically, the light source (671) is installed on the rear of the support (631), and the light guide (672) is installed through the support (631).

[0215] The light guide unit (672) can be positioned to overlap the front cover (660) from the front and rear. When the light guide unit (672) is positioned to overlap the front cover (660) from the front and rear, there is an advantage in that the light emitted from the light guide unit (672) is not directly emitted to the outside, but is reflected by the front cover (660) and emitted to the outside as indirect light.

[0216] Preferably, the light guide portion (672) may be positioned to overlap with the lower part of the front cover (660) from the front and rear and overlap with the suction portion (651).

[0217] 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 (690). The second connector (300) is arranged spaced apart from the casing (601) and can be connected to the power supply unit (690) by a cable (370).

[0218] The structure for organizing and fixing the cable (370) is described later in Fig. 13. Of course, as another example, the second connector (300) may be coupled to the casing (601), and the cable (370) connecting the power supply (690) and the connector may be located inside the casing (601).

[0219] The deodorizing module (600) is coupled to the rear surface (610e) of the casing (601), and may further include a friction member (695) that maintains the horizontality of the casing (601) and provides friction with the refrigerator.

[0220] The friction member (695) separates the rear surface (610e) of the casing (601) from the rear surface (123) of the storage space (12, 13), and provides a space in which the cable (370) is positioned between the rear surface (610e) of the casing (601) and the rear surface (123) of the storage space (12, 13).

[0221] The friction member prevents slipping when the casing (601) moves left and right.

[0222] Additionally, although not shown in the drawing, the deodorizing module (600) may further include a sterilizing unit. The sterilizing unit may provide ultraviolet light to the air flowing through the casing (601).

[0223]

[0224] Below, the structure of the auxiliary unit (800) is described in detail.

[0225] FIG. 9c is a perspective view of an auxiliary unit (800) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 9d is a drawing showing an auxiliary device terminal (693) and a sensing terminal (813) connected according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 9e is a drawing showing an auxiliary device terminal (693) and a sensing terminal (813) disconnected according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0226] Referring to FIGS. 9A to 9E, the auxiliary unit (800) detects a state within the storage space. The auxiliary unit (800) may include a sensor (830), a sensor case (820), and a sensor connector (810).

[0227] The sensor (830) can sense the state of the storage space. The sensor (830) senses at least one of the temperature, humidity, and odor particle concentration of the storage space.

[0228] The sensor (830) detects odor particles in the air. Here, the odor particles may be gas particles such as H2S, NH3, VOCs, etc. that generate odor.

[0229] The sensor (830) may be positioned at a position that does not overlap with the axial direction (Ax) of the casing (601) and the fan (620). The sensor (830) may be positioned at a position that does not overlap with the suction portion (651) in the front-rear direction. The sensor (830) may be accommodated in the sensor case (820).

[0230] The sensor case (820) can provide a space for accommodating a sensor (830). The sensor case (820) can further include a sensor hole (821) that connects the inside and the outside of the sensor case (820).

[0231] The sensor hole (821) may be located on one side of the sensor case (820) that is located furthest from the casing (601). The sensor hole (821) may be located on the lower surface of the sensor case (820). Additionally, the sensor hole (821) may be formed on the opposite side of the side of the sensor case (820) to which the sensor connector (810) is connected. Since the sensor hole (821) is located far from the casing (601), even if air is sucked into the casing (601), the flow rate is not large, enabling accurate sensing.

[0232] The sensor connector (810) connects the sensor case (820) to the casing (601) and includes a sensing terminal (813) connected to the power supply (690).

[0233] The sensor connector (810) is electrically connected to the deodorization module (600) and connects the auxiliary unit (800) to the deodorization module (600). The sensor connector (810) connects the auxiliary unit (800) to the deodorization module (600) and can fix the relative positions of the auxiliary unit (800) and the deodorization module (600).

[0234] As another example, the sensor connector (810) may be installed in the casing (601) so as to be movable in one direction. That is, the sensor connector (810) may be coupled to the auxiliary unit (800) so as to slide into the casing (601).

[0235] When the sensor connector (810) slides into the casing (601), the auxiliary device terminal (693) and the sensing terminal (813) can be firmly connected, and even when the auxiliary unit (800) is connected to the deodorization module (600), the electrical connection between the auxiliary unit (800) and the deodorization module (600) can be freely adjusted.

[0236] The sensor connector (810) may have a structure that slides in one direction on the casing (601) and supports the auxiliary unit (800) in the other direction intersecting with the one direction.

[0237] The sensor connector (810) may include a flange (811) and a sensor arm (812).

[0238] The flange (811) has a sensing terminal (813) formed thereon and may have a width greater than that of the sensor arm (812). The flange (811) is supported on the peripheral casing (601) of the sensor coupling hole (616). The flange (811) is supported on the peripheral casing of the sensor coupling hole (616) and slides in one direction (left and right).

[0239]

[0240] The sensor arm (812) connects the flange (811) and the sensor case (820) at a distance and has a width smaller than the flange (811). The sensor arm (812) is inserted into the sensor coupling hole (616). The sensor coupling hole (616) guides the sensor arm (812).

[0241] The first direction length of the sensor coupling hole (616) is longer than the second direction length that intersects the first direction of the sensor coupling hole (616), and the sensor arm (812) can slide in the first direction.

[0242] Specifically, the left-right width of the sensor arm (812) may be smaller than the left-right length of the sensor coupling hole (616). Accordingly, the sensor arm (812) slides left-right in the sensor coupling hole (616).

[0243] For example, one side (814) of the flange (811) through which the sensing terminal (813) is exposed and one side of the power supply through which the auxiliary device terminal (693) is exposed may be arranged parallel to the first direction. As another example, when the auxiliary device terminal (693) is installed through the supporter (632), one side (814) of the flange (811) through which the sensing terminal (813) is exposed and one side (632a) of the supporter (632) through which the auxiliary device terminal (693) is exposed may be arranged parallel to the left and right directions.

[0244] The sensing terminal (813) and the auxiliary device terminal (693) may be in contact with each other when the flange (811) is positioned at the first position, and the sensing terminal (813) and the auxiliary device terminal (693) may be spaced apart from each other when the flange (811) is positioned at the second position.

[0245]

[0246] Below, the structure in which the deodorizing module (600) is mounted on the shelf (9) is described in detail.

[0247] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a stand (700) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the stand (700) of FIG. 10 mounting a deodorization module (600) on a shelf (9).

[0248] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the casing (601) can be mounted on a shelf (9) of a storage space by a stand (700).

[0249] The stand (700) may have a structure that restricts movement in the forward / backward and up / down directions within the storage space (12, 13) and allows movement in the left / right direction.

[0250] For example, the stand (700) includes a first stand member (710), a second stand member (720), a third stand member (730), and a connecting member (740).

[0251] 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).

[0252] The third mounting member (730) is spaced apart from the second mounting member (720) and is coupled to the casing (601). A coupling space (723) in which a portion of the casing (601) is positioned may be defined between the third mounting member (730) and the second mounting member (720).

[0253] 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).

[0254] 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.

[0255] 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 holder (700) is limited by the shelf (9), and the rearward movement of the holder (700) is limited by the rear surface (123) of the storage space (12, 13).

[0256] The casing (601) may further include a holder coupling portion (614) to which a holder (700) that is hung on the storage space (12, 13) is coupled. The holder coupling portion (614) is formed by the rear surface (610e) of the casing (601) being recessed forward.

[0257]

[0258] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a stand (700) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with a shelf (9) installed.

[0259] A stand (700) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, compared to the stand (700) of FIG. 10, has the third stand member (730) omitted and further includes the fourth stand member (750).

[0260] For example, the stand (700) includes a first stand member (710), a second stand member (720), a fourth stand member (750), and a connecting member (740).

[0261] 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).

[0262] The fourth mounting member (750) is spaced apart from the second mounting member (720). A mounting space (755) in which the casing (601) is positioned can be defined between the fourth mounting member (750) and the second mounting member (720). The fourth mounting member (750) supports the lower surface (610d) of the casing (601).

[0263]

[0264] FIG. 13 is a rear view of a deodorizing module (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0265] The second connector (300) may have a head and a cable (370) positioned outside the casing (601). In order to effectively organize the cable (370) while freely moving the position of the deodorizing module (600), the second connector (300) may further include a wire fixing portion (618) and a wire coupling portion (617).

[0266] 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.

[0267] The wire coupling portion (617) can be coupled to the casing (601) 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) can be installed on the rear surface (610e) of the casing (601).

[0268] By adjusting the position of the wire fixing member (618), the distance between the second connector (300) and the casing (601) can be adjusted, and the length of the cable (370) exposed to the outside can be reduced.

[0269] As another example, the wire joint (617) may have a structure that has elasticity and into which the cable (370) is inserted.

[0270]

[0271] FIG. 14a is a drawing illustrating a first connector (200) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 14b is a drawing illustrating the first connector (200) illustrated in FIG. 14a moved from the front to the rear.

[0272] Referring to FIGS. 14a and 14b, 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 are considered to be the same as those of FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0273] 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 the deodorization module (600), the user can connect it near the door (20) and move the first connector (200') to the dead zone.

[0274] 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.

[0275] The inner case (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).

[0276] Below, the structure in which the first connector (200') slides is described in detail.

[0277] Figure 14c is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14c-14c' of Figure 14b.

[0278] Referring to FIG. 14c, 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.

[0279] 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 (102). In another example, the slider (124) may be formed separately from the inner case (102).

[0280] 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).

[0281] 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).

[0282] 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.

[0283] The slide cover (280) can cover the sliding hole (102a) when the first connector (200') is moved.

[0284]

[0285] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating an auxiliary unit (600') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0286] Referring to FIG. 15, an auxiliary unit (600') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure has a difference in the position of the second connector (300) compared to the embodiment of FIG. 6. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment of FIG. 6 will be mainly described, and configurations without special descriptions will be considered to be the same as the embodiment of FIG. 6.

[0287] The second connector (300') may be installed on one side of the casing (601). Specifically, the second connector (300') may be installed to protrude outward from one side of the casing (601). At this time, the cable (370) of the second connector (300') may be located inside the casing (601). As another example, the second connector (300') may be directly connected to the power supply (690).

[0288]

[0289] Fig. 17 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. 18 is a flowchart sequentially showing the operation of the refrigerator (1) according to the installation of an additional device (600).

[0290] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, 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)

[0291] 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.

[0292] 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).

[0293] 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.

[0294] At this time, a program for driving an additional device (600) may be stored in the control unit (15).

[0295] 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)

[0296] 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)

[0297] 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.

[0298] 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)

[0299] 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).

[0300] 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)

[0301] 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)

[0302] 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.

[0303] 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.

[0304] 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.

[0305] The sensor detects odor particles in the storage space (12, 13) and provides them to the control unit (15).

[0306] The control unit (15) can control an additional device (600) depending on whether the door is opened or closed or an odor is detected.

[0307] Specifically, the control unit (15) can control the fan (620) to rotate at a lower speed when the door is open than when the door is closed. Accordingly, noise and discomfort to the user when the door is opened can be improved.

[0308] The control unit (15) can turn on the indicator (670) when the door is open and turn off the indicator (670) when the door is closed. Accordingly, the aesthetic feeling provided to the user when the door is opened can be improved.

[0309] The control unit (15) can rotate the fan (620) at a high speed when the concentration of odor particles inside the chamber is high, and can rotate the fan (620) at a low speed lower than the high speed when the concentration of odor particles inside the chamber is low.

[0310] In addition, the control unit (15) can control the indicator (670) to emit a first color when the concentration of odor particles inside the chamber is high, and can control the indicator (670) to emit a second color when the concentration of odor particles inside the chamber is low.

[0311]

[0312] FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an additional device (600) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0313] Referring to FIG. 19, in a control method of an additional device (600) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit (15) determines whether the door is open (S10).

[0314] When the control unit (15) determines that the door is open, it rotates the fan (620) of the additional device (600) at low speed and turns on the indicator (670) (S20, 30). At this time, the color of the indicator (670) can be set by the user or may be a preset color.

[0315] When the control unit (15) determines that the door is closed, it rotates the fan (620) of the additional device (600) at medium speed and turns off the indicator (670) (S40, 50). Here, medium speed means a relatively faster speed than low speed.

[0316] Thereafter, the control unit (15) determines whether the concentration of odor particles in the storage space (12, 13) exceeds the standard value (S60).

[0317] If the control unit (15) determines that the concentration of odor particles in the storage space (12, 13) exceeds the standard value, it rotates the fan (620) of the additional device (600) at high speed (S70). Here, high speed means a speed that is relatively faster than medium speed.

[0318] Thereafter, the control unit (15) determines whether the state in which the concentration of odor particles in the storage space (12, 13) exceeds the reference value continues (S80). The control unit (15) can determine that the state in which the concentration of odor particles in the storage space (12, 13) exceeds the reference value continues for a reference time or longer as the state in which the concentration of odor particles in the storage space (12, 13) exceeds the reference value continues. Here, the preset time can be set to 30 minutes to 1 hour.

[0319] The control unit (15) can notify the user of spoilage if the concentration of odor particles within the storage space (12, 13) continues to exceed the reference value (S90). Specifically, if the concentration of odor particles within the storage space (12, 13) continues to exceed the reference value, the control unit (15) can send a message to the user's terminal or output a message via the output unit (141).

[0320]

[0321] 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.

[0322] 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.

[0323] 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.

[0324] 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.

[0325] 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 changes within the equivalent scope of this disclosure are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

1. A movement part that performs additional movements; A power supply unit that provides power to the above-mentioned operating unit; A casing that accommodates the above-mentioned operating unit and the above-mentioned power unit and is installed in a storage space; and Includes an auxiliary unit that is detachably attached to the above casing and performs auxiliary operations of the above operating part, The above auxiliary unit is, An additional device, when coupled to the casing, electrically connected to the power supply, a portion of which is located outside the casing.

2. In paragraph 1, The above auxiliary unit is, A sensor that detects the status of the above storage space; a sensor case accommodating the above sensor; and An additional device comprising a sensor connector that connects the sensor case to the casing and includes a sensing terminal connected to the power supply.

3. In paragraph 2, The above power supply An additional device further comprising an auxiliary device terminal positioned inside the casing and selectively contacting the sensing terminal.

4. In paragraph 2, The above sensor connector is an additional device installed in the casing so as to be movable in one direction.

5. In paragraph 2, The above sensor connector, A flange on which the sensing terminal is formed; and An additional device comprising a sensor arm that connects the flange and the sensor case at a distance and has a width smaller than the flange.

6. In paragraph 5, The above casing, Further comprising a sensor coupling hole into which the above sensor arm is inserted, The first direction length of the sensor coupling hole is longer than the second direction length intersecting the first direction of the sensor coupling hole, The above sensor arm is an additional device that slides in the first direction.

7. In paragraph 6, An additional device in which one side of the flange on which the sensing terminal is exposed and one side of the power supply on which the auxiliary device terminal is exposed are arranged parallel to the first direction.

8. In paragraph 2, The above sensor case, It further includes a sensor hole that connects the inside and outside of the sensor case, The above sensor hole is an additional device located on one side of the sensor case that is located farthest from the casing.

9. In paragraph 6, The first part further includes a sensor hole cap that is coupled to the casing and closes the sensor coupling hole by elastic force. The above sensor hole cap, An additional device that opens the sensor coupling hole by being banded by the flange when the auxiliary unit is coupled to the casing.

10. In paragraph 6, The above casing, A first casing defining an internal space open in one direction and including an outlet through which air is discharged; and A second casing is coupled to the first casing and defines a suction portion communicating with the internal space, The above sensor coupling hole is an additional device defined by the coupling of the first casing and the second casing.

11. In paragraph 10, The first casing further includes a first sensor groove defining a portion of the sensor coupling hole, An additional device wherein the second casing further comprises a second sensor home defining another portion of the sensor coupling hole.

12. In paragraph 1, An additional device further comprising a second connector coupled to the first connector formed in the storage space to supply power to the power unit.

13. In paragraph 6, The above casing, It further includes a stand coupling part to which a stand that hangs on the above storage space is coupled, The above-mentioned stand joint is located at the top of the casing, The above sensor coupling hole is an additional device located at the bottom of the above casing.

14. In paragraph 10, The above operating unit includes a deodorizing filter and a fan that filters the air within the storage space, The above casing, An additional device comprising a third casing supporting the deodorizing filter and installed in the interior space of the first casing to define a space between the first casing and the third casing through which the flange moves.

15. Deodorizing filter that filters out odor particles within the storage space; A casing having the deodorizing filter disposed therein and defining a path through which air in the storage space passes through the deodorizing filter and is discharged back into the storage space; A fan placed in the euro of the above casing; and A power supply unit that provides power to the fan, includes an auxiliary device terminal, and is located inside the casing, The above casing, Further comprising a device coupling portion for coupling the auxiliary unit to the casing, The above device coupling portion is an additional device that restrains the terminal of the auxiliary unit to contact the terminal of the auxiliary device when the auxiliary unit is coupled to the casing.

Images