Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a cabinet forming a storage space; a door opening and closing the storage space; and a first connector installed in the cabinet, wherein the first connector comprises: a body including a mounting space open to the storage space, and coupled to the cabinet; and a first connection terminal positioned in the mounting space, wherein the first connection terminal may be positioned outside the storage space.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly to a refrigerator having a connector for supplying power to an additional device therein.

[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] Conventional technology has not disclosed a structure that is dew-proof, waterproof and dust-proof while supplying power to various electronic devices mounted or placed inside a refrigerator.

[0008]

[0009] [Prior Art Literature]

[0010] [Patent Document]

[0011] (Patent Document 0001) Republic of Korea Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0089725

[0012]

[0013] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator that can adjust the usage environment according to the consumer's preference by providing a connector structure that enables power connection inside the refrigerator.

[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator that minimizes design changes to existing mass-produced refrigerators, supplies power by installing connectors utilizing part of the internal structure of existing refrigerators, reduces condensation at the connector portion, and improves waterproof and dustproof performance.

[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator in which a mounting space formed vertically long on the side of a storage space is formed so that the space occupied by a connector is reduced, and the mounting space is formed vertically long, so that a vertical fixing force can be increased.

[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator that utilizes dead zones, whereby the connectors are positioned rearwardly from the side of the storage space and adjacent to the bottom surface of the shelf, thereby placing the connectors in the deadest space in the storage space of the refrigerator.

[0017] 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 connector can be connected near the door and moved to a dead zone.

[0018] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator that prevents malfunction and corrosion of an unused connector by placing a cap around the connector to block the connector when the connector is not in use.

[0019] 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.

[0020] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, a refrigerator is characterized in that a first connection terminal of a first connector is located outside a storage space, and a mounting space where the first connection terminal is located is opened to the storage space.

[0021] Specifically, a refrigerator according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a cabinet forming a storage space, a door for opening and closing the storage space, and a first connector installed in the cabinet, wherein the cabinet includes an inner case forming the storage space and an outer case spaced apart from the inner case and defining an insulating space between the inner case and the cabinet, and at least a portion of the first connector is positioned in the insulating space.

[0022] The first connector includes a mounting space open to the storage space, a body coupled to the inner case, and a first connection terminal positioned in the mounting space, wherein the first connection terminal can be positioned within the insulating space.

[0023] The cabinet may include a rear surface facing the door and a side surface extending from one end of the rear surface, and the first connector may be positioned on the side surface adjacent to the rear surface.

[0024] The vertical length of the above-mentioned mounting space may be longer than the front-back length of the above-mentioned mounting space.

[0025] The storage space may further include a shelf that divides the storage space in a vertical direction, and the first connector may be positioned adjacent to the bottom of the shelf.

[0026] The cabinet includes an outer case forming an exterior, an inner case forming the storage space, and an insulating material positioned between the outer case and the inner case, and the first connector is installed in the inner case and can be buried by the insulating material.

[0027] The first connector may further include a first sealing ring that comes into contact with the body and the inner case.

[0028] In addition, the present disclosure may further include a second connector coupled to the first connector, wherein the second connector may include an insertion portion inserted into the mounting space, and a second connection terminal formed in the insertion portion and made in contact with the first connection terminal.

[0029] The second connector may further include a second sealing ring installed in the insertion portion and in contact with the body defining the mounting space.

[0030] The second connector may further include a head from which the insertion portion protrudes, and a male holder installed on the head to generate a bonding force.

[0031] The above first connector can be installed slidably in the cabinet.

[0032] Additionally, the present disclosure may further include a slider installed on the side, which guides the first connector to slide in the forward and backward direction.

[0033] The above slider may have a groove shape that is open in the forward and backward directions and closed in the left and right directions.

[0034] The first connector may further include a slide projection inserted into the slider.

[0035] The above slider may further include a positioning groove for determining the position of the first connector.

[0036] Additionally, the present disclosure may further include a connector cap inserted into the mounting space and covering at least the mounting space.

[0037] Additionally, the present disclosure may further include a cap fixing member installed in the cabinet to fix the connector cap.

[0038] The above cabinet may further include a cap holder on which the connector cap is held.

[0039] In addition, a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized by including a cabinet forming a storage space, a door for opening and closing the storage space, a slider installed in the cabinet, and a first connector installed in the slider and sliding in one direction.

[0040] Here, the cabinet includes a rear surface facing the door and a side surface extending from a border of the rear surface, and the slider guides the first connector to slide in a forward-backward direction and can be installed on the side surface.

[0041] The connector includes a body that is installed slidingly on the slider, a first connection terminal located on one surface of the body, and a power connection terminal that is electrically connected to the first connection terminal and located on the other surface of the body, and when the connector is adjacent to the rear end of the storage space, the power connection terminal can come into contact with a main terminal connected to a main power source.

[0042]

[0043] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0044] The present disclosure has the advantage of allowing the user to adjust the usage environment according to the user's preference by providing a connector structure that enables power connection inside the refrigerator.

[0045] 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.

[0046] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of forming a vertically elongated mounting space on the side of the storage space and arranging magnets above and below the mounting space, thereby reducing the space occupied by the connector and increasing the vertical fixing force.

[0047] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of utilizing the dead zone, since the first connector is arranged in a rearward direction from the side of the storage space and adjacent to the bottom surface of the shelf, and the mounting space of the first connector is extended vertically, so that the connector is arranged in the dead zone space of the storage space of the refrigerator.

[0048] 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, allowing the user to connect an additional device near the door and move the connector to the dead zone.

[0049] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage that when the first connector moves forward and backward in the cabinet, the first connector is not connected by a main power source and a cable, but rather the main terminal located at the rear of the storage space and the power connection terminal of the connector come into contact with each other, and thus power is supplied to the first connection terminal, so that even if the first connector moves in the storage space, there is no need for a cable connection.

[0050]

[0051] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of preventing malfunction and corrosion of an unused connector by placing a cap around the connector to block the connector when the connector is not in use.

[0052] 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 a UX operation of the module that helps the convenience of the consumer in conjunction with the opening of the refrigerator door.

[0053] 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.

[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the open door portion of the refrigerator illustrated in Figure 1.

[0056] Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing a second connector coupled to the first connector illustrated in Fig. 2.

[0057] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4' of Figure 3.

[0058] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the first connector and the second connector of Fig. 4 in a separated state.

[0059] Figure 6 is a drawing of the first connector illustrated in Figure 2 as viewed from the storage space.

[0060] FIG. 7 is a front view of a second connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a storage space of a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Fig. 9 is a drawing showing a state in which the connector cap in Fig. 8 is separated from the first connector.

[0063] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing the connector cap of Fig. 9 inserted into the cap insertion portion.

[0064] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a connector cap according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 12a is a drawing illustrating a first connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Figure 12b is a drawing showing the first connector illustrated in Figure 12a moved from the front to the rear.

[0067] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13' of Figure 12b.

[0068] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14' of Figure 12b.

[0069] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a storage space of a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating a storage space of a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating a first connector installed in a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Figure 18 is a drawing showing the appearance of the refrigerator with the first connector removed in Figure 17.

[0073] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 19-19' of Fig. 17.

[0074] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20' of Figure 19.

[0075] Figure 21a is a perspective view of the first connector illustrated in Figure 17.

[0076] Figure 21b is a drawing showing the forward movement of the first connector of Figure 21a.

[0077] Fig. 22 is an exploded perspective view of the first connector illustrated in Fig. 17.

[0078] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23-23' of Figure 21.

[0079] Figure 24 is a drawing showing an additional device mounted on the first connector of Figure 17.

[0080] Figure 25 is a perspective view illustrating an additional device of Figure 24.

[0081] Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing the first connector and the second connector of Fig. 24 combined.

[0082] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a first connector and a second connector combined according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] FIG. 28 is a block diagram schematically showing the connection status of major components of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0084] Figure 29 is a flowchart sequentially showing the operation of the refrigerator according to the installation of the above additional device.

[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 (14) for controlling the overall operation of the refrigerator (1) (10) may be formed on the upper surface of the cabinet (10). The control unit (14) may control the operation of the refrigerator (1) (10) as well as the operation of additional devices (600, 700) 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, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4' of FIG. 3, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the first connector (200) and the second connector (300) of FIG. 4 are separated.

[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 additional devices (600, 700) located in the storage space (12, 13). The additional devices (600, 700) may be selectively mounted in the refrigerator (1) to upgrade the functions of the refrigerator (1) or provide additional functions.

[0110] In addition, the additional device (600, 700) may have an independent function added to the general cooling operation of the refrigerator (1). For example, the additional device (600, 700) may include at least one sterilizing and deodorizing module that purifies and sterilizes the air within the refrigerator (1), a chiller that provides a temperature lower than the storage space, a sealed room that provides a pressure lower than the storage space, and a sensing module that senses various conditions within the storage space.

[0111] At this time, the first connector (200) can be configured to be automatically recognized and operable when an additional device (600, 700) is mounted.

[0112] These additional devices (600, 700) may be equipped with a second connector (300) coupled with the first connector (200). The second connector (300) is connected to the additional device (600, 700) via a power cable (370), but may also be formed integrally with the main body of the additional device (600, 700).

[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 additional devices (600, 700) 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] Figure 6 is a drawing of the first connector (200) illustrated in Figure 2 as viewed from the storage space (12, 13).

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, 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). The inner case (102) and the outer case (101) are spaced apart from each other, so that an insulating space is formed between the inner case (102) and the outer case (101). In addition, an insulating material (103) may be filled in the insulating space between the inner case (102) and the outer case (101).

[0120] 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).

[0121] 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 assembly (121). The grill fan assembly (121) can form a path for the flow of cold air inside the refrigerator.

[0122] 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).

[0123] At least a portion of the first connector (200) may be positioned between the inner case (102) and the outer case (101). At least a portion of the first connector (200) may be positioned in an insulating space. At least a portion of the first connector (200) may be buried by an insulating material (103).

[0124] Specifically, a part of the first connector (200) may be positioned in the insulating space, and another part of the first connector (200) may be positioned to overlap the inner case (102) in one direction (up and down).

[0125]

[0126] 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).

[0127] 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).

[0128] 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.

[0129] A first connection terminal (211) for transmitting and receiving power and data may be arranged in the mounting space (210). The first connection terminal (211) may be electrically connected to the main power and main control unit of the refrigerator (1). The position of the first connection terminal (211) is not limited, but may be arranged at a position as far away as possible from the storage space (12, 13) for waterproofing and dustproofing. Specifically, the first connection terminal (211) may be installed at a position farthest from the exposed surface (230) of the body (220) in the mounting space (210).

[0130] More specifically, the first connection terminal (211) may be positioned between the inner case (102) and the outer case (101). The first connection terminal (211) may be placed in an insulating space. If the moisture-sensitive first connection terminal (211) is placed away from the inner case (102), the waterproof performance of the first connection terminal (211) may be improved.

[0131] The mounting space (210) may have various shapes. For example, the vertical length (L1) of the mounting space (210) may be longer than the front-back length (L2) of the mounting space (210). If the vertical length (L1) of the mounting space (210) is formed to be longer than the front-back length (L2) 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.

[0132] The mounting space (210) may have a shape in which the vertical length (L1) decreases as it gets farther away from the storage space (12, 13). When the vertical length (L1) of the mounting space (210) gets smaller as it gets farther away from the storage space (12, 13), it serves to guide the insertion portion (320) when it is combined with the insertion portion (320) of the second connector (300).

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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).

[0136] 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).

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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).

[0139] 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, 700) being mounted.

[0140]

[0141] Below, the structure of the second connector (300) coupled with the first connector (200) is described in detail.

[0142] 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 an additional device (600, 700). Alternatively, it may be formed separately and connected to the additional device (600, 700) by a cable (370).

[0143] FIG. 7 is a front view of a second connector (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5 and 7, 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).

[0145] The head (330) is connected to a cable (370) that is electrically connected to an additional device (600, 700), and the cable (370) is electrically connected to a second connection terminal (310) through the head (330).

[0146] 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)).

[0147] Preferably, the head (330) may have a size and shape corresponding to the exposed surface (230).

[0148] 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).

[0149] 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).

[0150] The second connection terminal (310) can be positioned at the furthest position from the head (330) in the insertion portion (320).

[0151] 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).

[0152] 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).

[0153] 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.

[0154] 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).

[0155] When two number holders (340) are arranged vertically apart, there is an advantage in that they can have a large resistance when a force is applied in the vertical direction due to the weight of the additional device (600, 700) being mounted.

[0156]

[0157] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a storage space (12, 13) of a refrigerator (1) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 9 is a view showing a state in which a connector cap (400) of FIG. 8 is separated from a first connector (200), and FIG. 10 is a view showing a state in which a connector cap (400) of FIG. 9 is inserted into a cap insertion portion (320).

[0158] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a connector cap (400) inserted into a mounting space (210) and covering at least the mounting space (210).

[0159] A portion of the connector cap (400) may be inserted into the mounting space (210), and another portion of the connector cap (400) may cover the periphery of the mounting space (210). Accordingly, the connector cap (400) limits moisture and dust from entering the interior of the mounting space (210) when the first connector (200) is not in use. The connector cap (400) may be made of an elastic rubber material.

[0160] For example, the connector cap (400) may include an insertion portion (410) that is inserted into the mounting space (210), and a cover portion (420) that is connected to one end of the insertion portion (410) and has a size larger than the insertion portion (410). The cover portion (420) may be in contact with an area of ​​an exposed surface (230) that surrounds the mounting space (210).

[0161] The cabinet (10) may further include a cap holder (500) on which a connector cap (400) is held. The cap holder (500) may be installed in the inner case (102). The cap holder (500) may be formed by recessing the inner case (102). The cap holder (500) may have a groove shape that accommodates at least a portion of the connector cap (400).

[0162] The cap holder (500) can be formed around the location where the first connector (200) is installed.

[0163] When a user stores food, in order to utilize the space adjacent to the rear (123) of the least used storage space (12, 13), the cap holder (500) may be formed at a position adjacent to the side (122) of the cabinet (10) at the rear (123) of the cabinet (10).

[0164]

[0165] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a connector cap (400) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 11, a connector cap (400) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a cap fixing portion (430, 440) compared to the connector cap (400) of FIG. 9. Hereinafter, differences from FIG. 9 will be mainly described, and configurations without special description will be considered to be the same as FIG. 9.

[0167] The cap fixing member (430, 440) is installed in the cabinet (10) and fixes the connector cap (400). One end of the cap fixing member (430, 440) is fixed to the inner case (102), and the other end can be connected to the connector cap (400). The cap fixing member (430, 440) may include a flexible material.

[0168] The cap fixing portion (430, 440) may include a case coupling portion (440) coupled to the inner case (102) and a connection portion (430) connected to the case coupling portion (440) and connected to the connector cap (400). When the connector cap (400) is separated from the first connector (200), it is fixed by the cap fixing portion (430, 440).

[0169]

[0170] FIG. 12a is a drawing illustrating a first connector (200) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 12b is a drawing illustrating the first connector (200) illustrated in FIG. 12a moved from the front to the rear.

[0171] Referring to FIGS. 12a and 12b, 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.

[0172] The first connector (200') can be installed to slide forward and backward on the side (122) of the cabinet (10). When the first connector (200') is slid forward and backward, the first connector (200') moves forward and backward in the storage space (12, 13), so that when a user connects an additional device (600, 700), the user can connect it near the door (20) and move the first connector (200') to the dead zone.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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).

[0175] Below, the structure in which the first connector (200') slides is described in detail.

[0176] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13' of Figure 12b.

[0177] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, 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.

[0178] 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).

[0179] 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).

[0180] 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).

[0181] 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.

[0182] The slide cover (280) can cover the sliding hole (102a) when the first connector (200') is moved.

[0183]

[0184] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14' of Figure 12b.

[0185] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 14, the slider (124) may further include a positioning groove (1242) that determines the position of the first connector (200').

[0186] The positioning groove (1242) determines the horizontal position of the first connector (200'). Specifically, the positioning groove (1242) may be formed by a portion of the second slider (124b) being sunken downward. A plurality of positioning grooves (1242) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the front-back direction.

[0187] The second slider (124b) may include a positioning groove (1242) and a sliding surface (1241) positioned higher than the positioning groove (1242).

[0188] When the slider (124) projection slides on the second slider (124b) and is caught by its own weight in the positioning groove (1242), the position is fixed.

[0189]

[0190] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a storage space (12, 13) of a refrigerator (1) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0191] Referring to FIG. 15, a refrigerator (1) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include an additional device (600, 700) that may be a sterilizing and deodorizing module (600) that sterilizes and deodorizes air in a storage space (12, 13). The sterilizing and deodorizing module (600) may be coupled to a first connector (200).

[0192]

[0193] FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating a storage space (12, 13) of a refrigerator (1) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0194] Referring to FIG. 16, a refrigerator (1) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include an additional device (600, 700) that may be a sensing module (700) that senses air in a storage space (12, 13). The sensing module (700) may be coupled to a first connector (200).

[0195] The sensing module (700) can detect temperature, pressure, putrefactive gas, odorous gas, etc. within the storage space (12, 13) and provide the same to the control unit.

[0196]

[0197]

[0198]

[0199] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a first connector (200'') installed in a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a refrigerator with the first connector (200'') removed from FIG. 17.

[0200] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, a first connector (200'') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the first connector (200'') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure in that it is further installed on a sliding rail (290) that slides on a 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.

[0201] The first connector (200'') can be installed to slide forward and backward on the side (122) of the cabinet (10). When the first connector (200'') is slid forward and backward, the first connector (200'') moves forward and backward in the storage space (12, 13), so that when a user connects an additional device (600, 700), the user can connect it near the door (20) and move the first connector (200'') to the dead zone.

[0202] 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.

[0203] Since the first connector (200'') is located in front of the storage space (12, 13) and rarely connects power to other additional devices, when the first connector (200'') is located in front of the storage space (12, 13), the first connector (200'') is spaced apart from the main terminal (125) of the refrigerator, and when the first connector (200'') is located in the rear of the storage space (12, 13), the first connector (200'') can be electrically connected to the main terminal (125) of the refrigerator.

[0204] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 19-19' of FIG. 17, FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20' of FIG. 19, FIG. 21a is a perspective view of the first connector (200'') shown in FIG. 17, FIG. 21b is a drawing showing the first connector (200'') of FIG. 21a moving forward, FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of the first connector (200'') shown in FIG. 17, and FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23-23' of FIG. 21.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 19, for example, the first connector (200'') may include a sliding rail (290) installed in a storage space (12, 13) and a body (260) that slides on the sliding rail (290) and includes a first connection terminal (211').

[0206] It is preferable that the sliding rail (290) be installed in the storage space (12, 13) without damaging the insulation (103). For example, the sliding rail (290) may be installed in the inner case (102) and exposed to the storage space (12, 13).

[0207] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the sliding rail (290) can provide a path for the body (260) to move forward and backward in the storage space (12, 13). The sliding rail (290) can be structured to allow forward and backward movement of the body (260) and restrict left and right movement and up and down movement of the body (260).

[0208] The sliding rail (290) may include an upper slider (292), a lower slider (293), and a rail plate (291) connecting the upper slider (292) and the lower slider (293).

[0209] The upper slider (292) may be shaped like a groove (292a) that is open in the forward and backward directions and downward, and closed in the left and right directions. The upper portion of the body (260) may be inserted into the upper slider (292) and may slide. Specifically, the upper end of the body (260) may be inserted into the upper slider (292) and may slide. The upper slider (292) may extend forward and backward.

[0210] The lower slider (293) may be shaped like a groove (293a) that is open in the forward and backward directions and upward, and closed in the left and right directions. The lower portion of the body (260) may be inserted into the lower slider (293) and may slide. Specifically, the lower end of the body (260) may be inserted into the lower slider (293) and may slide. The lower slider (293) may extend in the forward and backward directions. The lower slider (293) may be arranged to face the upper slider (292).

[0211] The upper end of the rail plate (291) is connected to the upper slider (292), and the lower end of the rail plate (291) is connected to the lower slider (293). The rail plate (291) is coupled to the inner case (102) to secure the first connector (200'') to the storage space (12, 13). The rail plate (291) can be coupled to the inner case (102) by screws or by bonding.

[0212] A sliding space (294) can be defined as a space in which the body (260) slides by the rail plate (291), the upper slider (292), and the lower slider (293). The rear of the sliding space (294) can be open, and the front of the sliding space (294) can be closed.

[0213] Specifically, the sliding rail (290) may include a rail cover (295) that is coupled to the front end of the rail plate (291), the upper slider (292), and the lower slider (293) to cover the front of the sliding space (294).

[0214] Therefore, the sliding rail (290) sets a limit when the body (260) moves forward by the rail cover (295).

[0215] A rail opening (296) may be formed at the rear end of the rail plate (291), the upper slider (292), and the lower slider (293). The rail opening (296) may be in communication with the sliding space (294). The rail opening (296) allows the body (260) to be exposed to the rear of the rail plate (291) so that it can be connected to the main terminal (125) of the refrigerator.

[0216]

[0217] Referring to FIGS. 21 to 23, the body (260) can be installed to slide in the front-back direction on the rail plate (291). For example, the body (260) can include a first connection terminal (211'), a connector plate (262), a lever (263), and sliding pieces (266, 267).

[0218] The connector plate (262) accommodates the first connection terminal (211') and provides a space where the second connector (300') is coupled. For example, the connector plate (262) exposes the first connection terminal (211') in a direction intersecting the movement direction of the body (260). Specifically, the connector plate (262) exposes the first connection terminal (211') in the opposite direction of the rail plate (291).

[0219] The connector plate (262) may be formed by recessing the peripheral area of ​​the first connection terminal (211') to form a terminal groove (265). The terminal groove (265) provides a space where the second connector (300') is coupled. The terminal groove (265) may be positioned to face the rail plate (291).

[0220] The sliding member (266, 267) is inserted into the upper slider (292) or the lower slider (293). The sliding fan is inserted into the upper slider (292) or the lower slider (293) to guide the movement of the body (260) when the body (260) moves in the forward and backward direction.

[0221] The sliding pieces (266, 267) may include an upper sliding piece (266) protruding from the top of the connector plate (262) and a lower sliding piece (267) protruding from the bottom of the connector plate (262).

[0222] The lever (263) provides a gripping force to the user when the user moves the body (260). For example, the lever (263) may be formed to protrude from the connector plate (262). Specifically, the lever (263) may protrude from the connector plate (262) in the opposite direction of the rail plate (291).

[0223] The lever (263) may be positioned at the front end of the connector plate (262), and the first connection terminal (211') may be positioned at the rear end of the connector plate (262). When the lever (263) is positioned at the front end of the connector plate (262), even if the second connector (300') of the additional device is connected to the first connection terminal (211'), the lever (263) is exposed to the storage space (12, 13), so that the user can move the first connector (200'') at any time.

[0224] When the first connection terminal (211') is positioned at the rear end of the connector plate (262), the first connection terminal (211') and the power connection terminal (264) are positioned adjacent to each other, facilitating electrical connection between the first connection terminal (211') and the power connection terminal (264).

[0225] In particular, referring to FIGS. 18 and 20, the body (260) may further include a power connection terminal (264) that is selectively in contact with the main terminal (125) connected to the main power of the refrigerator.

[0226] The power connection terminal (264) can be electrically connected to the first connection terminal (211'). The power connection terminal (264) can be installed on the connector plate (262) and exposed at the rear end of the connector plate (262). The main terminal (125) can be installed on the rear side (123) of the storage space (12, 13).

[0227] The first connection terminal (211') is formed on one side of the body (260), and the power connection terminal (264) is formed on the other side intersecting the one side of the body (260) on which the first connection terminal (211') is formed.

[0228] Specifically, the first connection terminal (211') is formed on one side of the body (260) facing the side (122) of the storage space (12, 13), and the power connection terminal (264) is formed on the other side of the body (260) facing the rear side (123) of the storage space (12, 13).

[0229] The sliding rail (290) is installed on the side (122) of the storage space (12, 13), and since it is difficult to connect the main power supply by penetrating the sliding rail (290) from the side (122) of the storage space (12, 13), the main terminal (125) is installed on the rear (123) of the storage space (12, 13), and the power connection terminal (264) is exposed at the rear end of the connector plate (262), so that when the body (260) is adjacent to the rear (123) of the storage space (12, 13), the main terminal (125) and the power connection terminal (264) come into contact.

[0230] Preferably, a terminal portion (126) on which a main terminal (125) is formed may be formed on the rear surface (123) of the storage space (12, 13). The terminal portion (126) restricts movement of the body (260) due to a member that supports or fixes other members such as a shelf on the side surface (122) of the storage space (12, 13) and the rear surface (123) of the storage space (12, 13), thereby restricting the distance between the main terminal (125) and the power connection terminal (264).

[0231] Specifically, the terminal portion (126) can be formed to protrude forward from the rear surface (123) of the storage space (12, 13). The main terminal (125) is exposed on the front surface (126a) of the terminal portion (126).

[0232]

[0233] Fig. 24 is a drawing showing an additional device mounted on the first connector (200'') of Fig. 17.

[0234] Referring to Fig. 24, when the second connection terminal of the second connector (300') of the additional device is in contact with the first connection terminal (211') of the first connector (200''), when the lever (263) is pushed back, the additional device is positioned at a position desired by the user.

[0235]

[0236] Fig. 25 is a perspective view showing an additional device of Fig. 24, and Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing the first connector (200'') and the second connector (300') of Fig. 24 combined.

[0237] Referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, the additional device is connected by a second connector (300') and a cable (370). The additional device can be powered through the first connector (200'').

[0238] The second connector (300') may include a head (330') and a second connection terminal (310) that contacts the first connection terminal (211'). The second connection terminal may be exposed on one side of the head (330').

[0239] The first connecting terminal (211') and the second connecting terminal may be in contact with each other or fitted into each other. The head (330') may be inserted into the terminal groove (265).

[0240]

[0241] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a first connector (200''') and a second connector (300'') coupled according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0242] Fig. 27 differs from the embodiment of Fig. 26 in that it further includes a female holder and a male holder. Below, the differences from Fig. 26 will be mainly described, and descriptions of identical configurations will be omitted.

[0243] The first connector (200''') may further include a female holder (240') installed on the body 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.

[0244] Two arm holders (240') may be installed. For example, the first arm holder (241') may be positioned above the first connection terminal on the body, and the second arm holder (242') may be positioned below the first connection terminal on the body.

[0245] 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 devices (600, 700) being mounted.

[0246] 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.

[0247] Two water holders (340') may be installed. For example, the first water holder (341') ​​may be positioned above the second connection terminal in the head (330'), and the second water holder (342') may be positioned below the second connection terminal in the head (330').

[0248] When two number holders (340') are arranged vertically apart, there is an advantage in that they can have a large resistance when a force is applied in the vertical direction due to the weight of the additional devices (600, 700) being mounted.

[0249] The female holder (240') can be formed at a position corresponding to the male holder (340').

[0250]

[0251] FIG. 28 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. 29 is a flowchart sequentially showing the operation of the refrigerator (1) according to the installation of additional devices (600, 700).

[0252] Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, when power is supplied to the refrigerator (1), the driving unit (16), which is composed of components for cooling such as a compressor of the refrigerator (1), is driven, and the operation of the refrigerator (1) may begin. At this time, the control unit (15) controls the operation of the driving unit (16) according to the operation input from the operation unit (17). In addition, the control unit (15) controls the operation of the driving unit (16) so that the temperature of the storage space (12, 13) detected by the temperature sensor (18) is maintained at a set temperature, and such normal operation may be referred to as general operation. (S100)

[0253] With normal operation started, the user can mount additional devices (600, 700) to the first connector (200) of the refrigerator (1) as needed.

[0254] When the additional device (600, 700) 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, 700).

[0255] By simply mounting the additional device (600, 700) to the first connector (200), power is supplied to the additional device (600, 700), and the additional device (600, 700) and the control unit (15) are connected in a communicable state, so that information of the additional device (600, 700) can be recognized.

[0256] At this time, a program for driving additional devices (600, 700) may be stored in the control unit (15).

[0257] And, if the refrigerator (1) is equipped with a communication unit (19) and has a structure capable of communicating with the outside, a program for operating an additional device (600, 700) can be received and installed from a remote location. And, when an additional device (600, 700) is released through periodic communication with a remote location, the program for operating the additional device (600, 700) can be updated in the control unit (15) regardless of whether the additional device (600, 700) is mounted. Of course, the program for operating the additional device (600, 700) can be built into the control unit (15) so that the program for operating the additional device (600, 700) can be installed together with the mounting of the additional device (600, 700). (S220)

[0258] When the installation and recognition of the additional device (600, 700) are completed, the control unit (15) activates a corresponding program for the operation of the additional device (600, 700). That is, among the programs of the various additional devices (600, 700) installed in the control unit (15), the information of the actually installed additional device (600, 700) is recognized, and the corresponding program is activated accordingly. (S230)

[0259] After the mounting and recognition of the additional device (600, 700) is completed and the corresponding program for driving the additional device (600, 700) is activated, the normal recognition status of the additional device (600, 700) can be guided.

[0260] For example, the output unit (141) or the remote user terminal can be notified of the completion of normal recognition of the additional device (600, 700) and the waiting state for the operation of the additional device (600, 700). (S240)

[0261] Meanwhile, when normal mounting and recognition of the additional device (600, 700) are completed, the additional device (600, 700) can be operated according to the set corresponding program. Although it may vary depending on the type of the additional device (600, 700), if the corresponding program is normally activated, the additional device (600, 700) will perform the set operation along with the recognition of the additional device (600, 700).

[0262] Of course, the user may also set and operate the operation for the additional device (600, 700), and when the corresponding program is activated, the user may also set the operation of the additional device (600, 700) through the operation of the control unit (17) or the user terminal. (S250)

[0263] While the operation of the additional device (600, 700) is performed by the corresponding program, the control unit (15) controls the driving unit (16) to continue performing the normal operation. Of course, depending on the type and operation of the additional device (600, 700), other operations that are dependent on or changed by the additional device (600, 700) other than the normal operation may be performed. (S120)

[0264] Meanwhile, in the process of mounting an additional device (600, 700), if the additional device (600, 700) is not mounted normally in the first connector (200) or the additional device (600, 700) is not recognized normally due to another problem, the non-recognition status of the additional device (600, 700) is notified.

[0265] That is, the control unit (15) can notify the user through the output unit (141) or the user terminal that there is a problem with the mounting or recognition of the additional device (600, 700). At this time, the control unit (15) can analyze which part of the mounting or recognition of the additional device (600, 700) caused the problem and notify the user of the problem, so that the user can take appropriate action to resolve the problem.

[0266]

[0267] 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.

[0268] 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.

[0269] 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.

[0270] 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.

[0271] 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. Cabinet forming a storage space; a door for opening and closing the storage space; and Including a first connector installed in the above cabinet, The above cabinet, an inner case forming the storage space; and An outer case is included that is spaced apart from the inner case and defines an insulating space between the inner case and the outer case, A refrigerator wherein at least a portion of the first connector is located in the insulating space.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first connector, A body including a mounting space open to the storage space and coupled to the inner case; and Including a first connection terminal located in the above mounting space, A refrigerator wherein the first connection terminal is located within the insulating space. refrigerator.

3. In paragraph 1, The above cabinet, The rear side, which is the side facing the above door, Including a side extending from one end of the above rear surface, A refrigerator wherein the first connector is located on the side adjacent to the rear.

4. In paragraph 1, It further includes shelves that divide the storage space in the vertical direction, The above first connector, A refrigerator positioned adjacent to the bottom of the above shelf.

5. In paragraph 1, The above cabinet, Further comprising an insulating material positioned between the inner case and the outer case, A refrigerator wherein at least a portion of the first connector is embedded in the insulating material.

6. In paragraph 2, Further comprising a second connector coupled to the first connector; The above second connector, An insertion part inserted into the above mounting space, A refrigerator comprising a second connecting terminal formed in the insertion portion and in contact with the first connecting terminal.

7. In paragraph 6, The above second connector, A head from which the above insertion part protrudes, A refrigerator further comprising a holder installed on the head to generate a bonding force.

8. In paragraph 1, The above first connector, A refrigerator that is installed in a sliding manner in the above cabinet.

9. In paragraph 1, The above cabinet, The rear side, which is the side facing the above door, Including a side extending from the edge of the rear surface, A refrigerator further comprising a slider installed on the side, the first connector being guided to slide forward and backward.

10. In paragraph 9, The above slider is, A refrigerator with a home shape that is open in the front-back direction and closed in the left-right direction.

11. In paragraph 9, The above first connector, A refrigerator further comprising a slide projection inserted into the slider.

12. In paragraph 9, The above slider is, A refrigerator further comprising a positioning groove for determining the position of the first connector.

13. Cabinets forming storage space; A door for opening and closing the above storage space; a slider installed in the above cabinet; and A refrigerator comprising a first connector installed on the slider and sliding in one direction.

14. In paragraph 13, The above cabinet, The rear side, which is the side facing the above door, Including a side extending from the edge of the rear surface, The above slider guides the first connector to slide forward and backward, and is a refrigerator installed on the side.

15. In paragraph 13, The above connector, A body that is installed to slide on the above slider; A first connection terminal located on one side of the body; and A power connection terminal electrically connected to the first connection terminal and positioned on the other side of the body, A refrigerator in which the power connection terminal is in contact with the main terminal connected to the main power supply, when the connector is adjacent to the rear end of the storage space.

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